Lots of great news!

Hey everyone! I hope your new year is starting off right; it's been a bit hectic for us, but going really well all in all.

Christmas was wonderful - Santa was good to us, but we were better! LOL. We got some great gifts - Josh got the new computer he wanted (with a flat screen monitor; almost nicer than the laptops!), Hans got a DS Lite (like a Gameboy), and Bethany got a big telescope since she's our stargazer. And Santa brought her her own star, which she got to name! Now we can see it in the sky...

The week after was a little crazy - the kids were supposed to fly to Chicago, but were unable to at the last minute. A plane at the Chicago airport had skidded off the runway because the rain was freezing on the ground. So, no unaccompanied minors. Bethany was heartbroken, and I was for her. BUT, dad came here instead and they spent a week with him! Not something that will be repeated; it was harder to do and they didn't get to see the rest of the family, but at least they got to spend time together.

Since then we've been working around the house and making plans for the new year. I just finished a renovation on the master bath, and just have some detail work till it's completed. And Cody and I are making plans to completely renovate the kitchen (FINALLY!), and have begun making the purchases for this project. Actually, I've been buying stuff for this for over a year! Gotta get those sales... ; ) Cody is working hard, and we are grateful not only for this wonderful job, but all our many blessings. Good friends, family - it's a lot to be thankful for.

Well, time to go finish dinner (and balancing my checkbook - what fun!), but keep checking back. I'm going to make more effort to keep a weekly update, at minimum. Love to all!
-Kristen

Welcome!

Hi all! I'm starting this blog so family can stay in touch easier. I guess it's time to finally break down and do it...

Things are well. Josh made A/B honor roll on his progress report (waiting for the 'final' one to come in). He works so hard, but I still think we're just not paying attention in school the way he needs to. Boo and Hans are doing great. Boo missed straight A's by one point first semester (we treated her for all A's - it was soooo close!), and Hans got 'A/B' honor roll. Well, for his grade level!

Bethany and Josh have started altar serving at church - I'm so PROUD! - and Hans will be making his 1st Reconciliation/Communion next year. JUNE 13, 2009!!!

SAVE THAT DATE!

Had a blast in MI with everyone, and I am sooo glad we got to see you, Mom and Dad! Hope all is well with everyone. BTW, keep Cody and I in your thoughts; we picked up colds in MI, and are both working on not getting too sick. Thanks goodness the kids are fine! Love to all!
-K