The Van Becks: It is all over already!

The holidays always go by so fast, but a wonderful time they were. We had Christmas together as a family on Christmas eve. We opened presents, had a nice dinner with my parents then went to mass. Ethan was supposed to participate in the Christmas pageant but got sick in the back of church right before it was to start - poor kid! He felt much better right after though, so that was nice. We ended the night with laughs watching Elf! It is a must see for the whole family.

Christmas day was spent at the Van Becks. It was a beautiful day and all the cousins played hockey at the local rink. They have so much fun together and there is enough of them to play just about any type of game.

The kids were so excited this year for Santa and opening presents, etc. I have attached some pictures below. It is just priceless to see their faces when they open something they really wanted!

Mike has been off since the afternoon of Chrismas Eve and is off tomorrow too. The kids love having him home and I, of course, love the extra hands to help with the kids and get things done during the day. It will be an adjustment again when he does go back.

Except for some runny noses and Ethan's short sickness on Christmas eve, the kids are all doing well. Olivia has been talking more and more and her facial expressions are the funniest thing! She definitely shows what she is feeling with each expression. Stomping of the feet and hitting have been seen in the house lately too - it is hard not to laugh at her sometimes. Izzie is rolling over a little now, laughs a lot and is just very content!

We have been enjoying time together as a family as well as time with friends. We end 2008 being very grateful for all of them and all that we have! We are truly blessed! We can only hope 2009 brings as much joy and happiness!

Happy New Year!