We were lucky this year not to have to travel for the holidays. Our best presents were the family who came to see us this year. Papa Mark, Auntie Angela, Molly and Maggie came for a couple of days. And Aunt Sarah and Alek were here for a whole week. It was great fun to have a houseful of people to talk to, entertain the kids, make more coffee, tell stories with and laugh with. We loved it. Oliver was a little shell shocked when every one was gone and it was just us again. Now we're back to the routine of work and daycare and regular life. Maybe someday, we'll live close to family. I shouldn't say maybe, but rather hopefully. We miss all of them!
Sarah and Alek by the Spokane River on New Years Eve
We took the 'little kids table' literally.
Loving Papa Mark, especially Papa Mark with presents.
Just spent the weekend with Kelly, Stefan and lil' Charlotte at a house near Mt. Hood. You wouldn't have known were were just miles from the mountain, because we never saw it through the downpour of rain we had. We left the house only once for about 30 minutes to walk outside during the only break in weather in two days. Thank goodness for good company, good food, a pool table, coffee, whiskey, movies and a comfortable house! Oliver warmed up to the baby brother or sister idea this weekend with Charlotte. One of the big lessons he had to learn was to be quiet during her nap times. He needs more practice. 
Oliver really was sweetly holding her hand, despite the grimace on his face. 
Asleep on the trip home.
