Sophie in January

Sophie continues to be a real focal point in our household. The kids love to play with her and shower her with selfish love. Sophie likes to come snooping around the bathtub and has fallen in a number of times. Jadon and Leah like to build traps and forts for Sophie. She's actually a really good sport and goes along with it most of the time.

Where's Sophie? This is not a mere pile of junk. It is a carefully constructed and guarded fort for kitty.

Family Time

Last Sunday, Brian stayed back with the kids while I went to Gurnee and spent the day with my parents. I wanted to spend some time with my dad to celebrate his 65th birthday. He and my mom and I went out for lunch and had a nice talk. Then, dad headed home to watch the bitter end of the Packers' season while my mom and I shopped and got pedicures. I thoroughly enjoyed the one-on-one time with my parents.

Then on Monday, M.L.King day, Amie, Kylie, and Dylan came out to Sterling. It was a lot of fun, especially playing in the snow.

This picture was taken on another occassion at Amie's house. Dylan got this drum set for Christmas and he and Leah were having a jam session.

New Year's Eve Bash

About a year ago, some friends and I came up with a crazy idea to try and have a big New Year's Dance. Throughout the year we researched and reserved our venue, Arnie's Happy Spot Ballroom, and our DJ, Andy Cruse. We planned our evening, advertised, and decorated. The whole process was really fun, until the last month when I started to stress out about getting people to actually come. In the end, we had 45 people. It was hard for me to relax and enjoy it because I was in charge and worrying if others were having fun. It was fun to dress up, play the games, dance, and hang out with good friends. I don't think I'll undertake anything like this again, but we all have to live and learn. I'm excited about 2012 and wish everyone a Happy New Year!

Our Committee: Le Hartman, Jen Zuithoff, me, and Anita Johnson- amazing women and friends!

Our Centerpieces

Too bad this picture is fuzzy. It was the prom pic I never had!

Jeff and Charity are dancing here in the middle. We were thankful they came in from Galena and could ring in the new year with us.