family...

As a x-mas gift to my mother in law from the family, we took family shots at the local park. Our photographer, Wojtek, was Belgium and a true believer in his craft. It was refreshing to know that it was not just a profession for him but a passion. It took us less than 2 hours to capture "family." Picking the pictures was hard, as my sister-in-law and I had to pick them for mom. But, we were able to narrow it down to 5. It now hangs proudly in mom's living room adding to her existing memories built on laughter and love.



My mother in law is one of the best. I don't think I could have been luckier even if I had the option to pick myself. Granted, she has her quirks but generally, she is one of the most giving people I know. I admit to people that I admire her strength to survive which she has passed down to all 3 of her kids. All of whom are testimonies to their mom's strength.



definately, my favorite neice. the oldest of the bunch and the one that can actually appreciate being spoiled. I gave her a white goosedown vest for x-mas which thankfully she loved and that gave me the biggest smile for the rest of x-mas eve. I can't wait for vegas where I can do more spoiling!



all four of the kiddos. each with their strengths and weaknesses. i just love them because I can borrow them then return them at the end of the day!

It's off to Vegas Wednesday morning... the realization that I've married into a family that likes to gamble is scary. Look out, we'll be the ones drunk and hogging up at least one of the craps tables for ourselves!

a first...

Inspired by a friend, I've decided to open and create an online journal of sorts. I'm not exactly sure how much I plan to reveal or write in this blog, however, I will post interesting conversations about nothing or something about everything. Thank you Joanne for your inspriation to open and clear my mind.



Above is a picture of my godson. Adorable and innocent to no end but even in innocence, up to no good. It's quite amusing to me how much one being goes through during life. Somethings are dramatic as continually demonstrated by my 7 year old drama queen neice. Or perhaps it's just nothing as all, as I picture my newphew shrug his shoulders and run off in laughter. I guess the end of the year always tends to place me in a "review" perspective.

My year in a nutshell? Alot of drastic change. Mostly all good changes. I know that I have nothing to be regretful about. 2005 has actually been a good year for me and for those around me.

Marriage is stable and still extremely happy. Career is good. Family is good. I'm actually picturing Joey from "Friends" during the whole Rachel and her combo Sheperd's pie slash trifil dessert. "What's there not to like, cream good, cake good, meat good!" Such has my life been this past year.

My goals for next year. I'll take that one day at a time. Geez, most of my days are spent figuring out what I'm doing next so to ask me now what my plans are for next year is like asking my neice not to be so dramatic.

Merry x-mas all and a safe and happy new year!