Not speechless anymore...

Since Katie's Thanksgiving post, life's been a whirlwind of activity. (don't you love that word...'whirlwind')

Christmas was wonderful. It was Halle's first birthday, and we got to talk to Tanner for over an hour. That was the best part of the day. The kids (ok the parents, too) have loved Rock Band 2, and the Wii has seen more use the past month than probably in the entire year previous.

We had a little birthday cake for Halle (red velvet, of course) but she wasn't feeling too great...little cold, little teething...and she was a pretty mellow birthday girl. We plan to really throw a fiesta on April 4...the one year anniversary of her coming home from the hospital and 'really' joining our family. Stay tuned for details!

As I reflected over the events of 2008, it was overwhelming to see the blessings in our lives. Halle is a true miracle. She has grown leaps and bounds, at least developmentally. Our 1 yr old weighs 12 lb 10 oz and is 24" long. She is so sweet. There is a peace and calm about her that brings sheer joy into this home. We are all completely smitten! She is crawling everywhere, sitting up, and pulling up to furniture. We are so grateful - and so proud - of each milestone. I am lucky to be her mother.

Sara's arrival home from China was another blessing. She had a great experience, and came home safely (keyword: HOME) It has been so fun to be together again, and makes us even more excited for Tanner's return on JUNE 2! Sara is working at the Lion House and began this semester at SLCC. It is fun to have her around, and I often spend the mornings begging her to stay home and hang out with me. Gotta stop that!

Katie is busy at school. She maintains excellents grades all on her own, and is accompanying the school play..."Peter Pan". Should be a great production; they always are at Evergreen Jr High. Chloe is a busy 3rd grader and the assistant mother around here. Science projects are in full swing...if only we could think of something involving sparkles, makeup, or nail polish. Meg is doing great. She works so hard and is reading! She has had a difficult time learning and the girl just never gives up. She is hilarious...and reminds me of Tigger...."Bouncing, bouncing, bouncing, bouncing...fun, fun, FUN, FUN, FUN!" Mati is speaking Spanish quite well nowadays...it's pretty impressive to watch how she understands things, and hear her speak occasionally. She is a little shy...but sometimes we can get the Pledge of Allegiance out of her en espanol.

Mat spent last week in Chicago and I am the first to admit I am not a good single mom. But we have fun, and all sleep together til Dad comes home.

Best news of the new year...THE KITCHEN IS almost DONE!! It is pure heaven. I have fired up all 3 ovens and we are loving every square inch. I feel like I'm dreaming sometimes.

That's the latest here...photos coming soon. Promise!