~~~

The kids had a big history lesson today. Collin and Nathan both know who the new President is. Aryana is just having fun walking and riding on her airplane. Best Wishes to President Obama!

Here is Aryana's official 1 year picture! Happy Birthday Sweetheart!

The kids fell asleep in the car after a fun day at Great-Grandma's and Papa's house!

Happy First Birthday Aryana!

Bruce and I spent New Years Eve with Collin and we had a "Rock-in New Year's Party". We watched the movie "Buddy" with no snacks due to recovering from the flu. Collin tried his best to make it 12:00 to see the ball drop, but only made it minutes past 11:29! Maybe next year, little buddy! It was a fun night! Happy New Year to Everyone!!!

Aryana says "Hi!"

Bruce and I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas!!!

Merry Christmas Eve!

On December 17, 2008, Kathy's father Alex passed away. My thoughts and prayers are with Kathy and Karen during this difficult time. I met Alex several times and he had a heart of gold, a hugh smile and warm loving hands. He truly would light up the room with his love!

Today, Bryce and Jaxson came over while their Mom got her hair done. The boys had so much fun playing together - watching movies and eating popcorn!!!

Karen went to visit Grandma and Grandma wanted to send a special

"Hello and Merry Christmas" to everyone!

Tonight, Bruce and I took Kristina and the boys to Downtown Rochester to see the Beautiful lights on the buildings! Collin fell asleep on the way there so he had to sit in the stroller - but he still enjoyed the lights. It was so super cold that my fingers were numb by the time we got back to the car! It was so fun to share the experience with the boys!

Also tonight, we remember my brother Guy who would have celebrated his 53rd birthday today! He is always close in my heart!

Collin was so impressed with Debbie's hugh Nutcracker last year, that we had to make sure to get a picture of him with it this year! Boy, you can really see how much he has grown! He also has started his own Nutcracker collection!!!

Christopher, Kayla and Alex are in the holiday spirit!!!

I took pictures of Mike and Courtney and could not resist adding

"The Santa Hat"! It is so much fun!!!

Collin and Nathan are enjoying their new Veggie Tales Christmas shirts that Grandma Norma bought them.!

Merry Christmas from the Martin Kids!!!

Aryana is 11 months old...

and it looks like she is getting ready for Christmas!

Michelle gave me a great idea --- cut out the kids profiles in wood and put their name and year on them for Christmas ornaments! I am waiting for her profiles to arrive. Here are Collin, Nathan and Aryana! I have yet to cut them out. I will post them when I do!

Yesterday, Grandma Brahm celebrated her 94th Birthday with Karen and Kathy! Happy Birthday Grandma, you are a blessing to all of us!!!