The end of one year, the beginning of a new one, all in one week.
Though its an antiquated practice at this point, there is not a question whether I would continue to blog into this next year. At the beginning, blogging made sense because it combined two things I enjoy...pictures and writing. I couldn't have known what a treasure trove it would be to have my kids' growing-up years documented in one place.
Thank you, readers for following through the years. There is a LOT of information about our family and maybe it gives material for judging us, but overwhelmingly, I have experienced that people care and are so encouraging. Dana, a long-time reader said she feels like an aunt to my kids and nieces and nephews because she's watched them grow over the years. Ha!
Here's to the start of my 19th year blogging, whatever it may hold.
December 27
North was the direction we headed this year for our 6th Annual DiSalvaCour trip, though once Nathanael and Tina's check-in photo came from where they were in Puerto Rico, we were definitely questioning our decision to go to Portland, Maine. Rocco's high school hockey tournament was in Portland so that made the decision easy.
Our requirements for a place are pretty simple: a good common area for games and puzzles, a pool and hot tub, inexpensive and preferably with breakfast included. At least for this traditional trip, the location on the map is very secondary.
December 28
The next morning we went to the rink to cheer Rocco on for what turned out to be his final game of the tournament. Then is was lobby hangs all day and well into the night (after 9pm not pictured ;).
December 29
Amy offered to take the baby at 6AM to give the parents some extra sleep. Brilliant! All of us old people were up anyway, so it was a win-win. Still trying to wrap my mind around the fact that my sister is a grandma. I mainly see her as an early 20 year old.
Oh my goodness...this sweet baby! Kelly and C so generous about letting people hold him and we took full advantage!
Apparently Marden's is iconic Maine. Amy took a crew to this stuff store.
Dinner out and then back to watch more football.
December 30
Shaun and I went out to explore the area a bit. It was so cold and windy so most of it was seen from inside the warm car.
After the free breakfast, we checked out of our rooms and then settled into an otherwise empty lobby area. Was it empty because no one needed to use it or because they saw us and ran? We'll never know.
Before heading home, we snapped some group photos. I'm so thankful for this group....the getaways, of course, but mostly the daily life stuff we do together.
December 31
This is my Christmas tree, gone. Amanda and Aiden were both a huge help. This is how I do my part to help spring come early. :)
January 1
We had our traditional New Year's Day party at Grandma's house and we had everyone there, even Jared!
We closed out the evening with the kids back at our house for a fun game.
January 2
Its that time again...opening up another tax season. Each year the room is made up almost entirely of family, friends and long-time employees. Nathan is an exceptional business man and a caring and generous employer.
We allow ourselves a short time to grumble about it being tax time again and then we settle in and do what needs to be done.
January 3
Our beloved Sarah is moving to a mission field very far away so she came to say our last goodbyes while Amanda was still home.
She came into our lives about eight years ago, a very clear answer to a specific prayer that Avery would find a good and true friend. She was exactly that to Avery, but she jumped into our family and we all got to have the blessing of Sarah. When I see this picture, I think of so many memories, but mostly I can hear three teenaged girls giggling together.
January 4
After church, Amanda very patiently helped me get all the candles we'll need for burning all day, every day at the office, where we aim for a warm and welcoming atmosphere that sets people at ease.
Soon after, Amanda packed up her things and headed back to school. That's the hardest part of school for her, I think.
Aiden's crew was at Rocco's house for the day.
Yay and thank for another year of blogging!
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