New Year's 2008

New Year's this year was pretty low key. Nobody in our circle of friends threw a big party as in the past. Which was actually OK because there's really no available babysitters on New Year's. So, a last minute phone call to Malinda's parents landed us at their house in Apple Valley. Malinda fixed dinner and we snacked on candy and dessert all night while playing card games. By the time we realized we should have celebrated on Eastern time (because we were so tired) it was too late. So we actually all stayed up all night and then promptly went to bed. The next day was pretty relaxing with no obligations. To say the least, God has truly blessed us in 2007.

Malinda worked part-time a portion of the year and then she was able to be a stay-at- home mom to Mason. She was also able to join in a small group of women her own age for spiritual growth, fellowship and accountability. She has been blessed to see that God's provision does prevail even though it's not in her timing.

Matt had pleasure in watching Mason grow into a toddler and enjoys any time he gets to hang out and play with him. God also allowed Matt the time to be in a small group with other young men in our church. He was blessed to see God's working hand in the youth group, knowing that his ministry was not in vain.

Mason is a vibrant, energetic toddler. He has about 30 words (which only mom and dad can translate). He is healthy and independent. Praise the Lord for his health and exceptional development.

Christmas 2007

Christmas 2007 was a blast! We headed up to Apple Valley, to Malinda's parent's house, on Christmas Eve and stayed until the day after Christmas. Malinda's brothers were also there with their families. After the kids went to bed we played a lot of games, but I have to mention that the girls kicked the boys' butt (twice) in Family Fued! Christmas morning was rough. Nobody seemed to sleep well and we were all really tired. Mason woke up and stayed in a cranky mood the rest of the trip, come to find out that he was sick. :( His new toys kept him distracted for a little while. With 3 little ones on the move there was never a dull moment and plenty of laughs.


The day after Christmas we did a little bit of shopping in the morning for the great deals! Then, that evening we met up with Matt's parents. We had dinner, opened presents and went out to do a little more shopping before heading home.

This was by far Mason's favorite Christmas present. He drops the ball in and watches it spin, twist and turn down the ramps and tubes.