January's Return

Ahh...do you feel that? It's the post-holiday calm, the peaceful reverie of new memories to cherish. The holidays are over, and what a special time it has been to share them with our family and friends. A couple of days ago we said farewell to 2012 and welcomed in the new year. Looking back, it has been a wonderful year and the Lord has been so good to us. Through it all, we can surely say that He has been faithful. We do not know what the future holds as we move forward, but we certainly know who holds the future! What a comfort it is to put our faith in Him!

I left off last week before we went to Minnesota, so I suppose I shall begin there. One of our Massner cousins rode up with us and it was fun to have her along. We arrived Wednesday evening, and spent that evening and the next day talking, playing games, playing in the snow, and finding other forms of entertainment with our cousins. On Friday the fish were biting so the men and boys went ice fishing. Billy caught a 4-lb walleye and our uncle caught a smaller one later on. That night we went to pizza ranch and then bowling afterwards with all the cousins. We had a girls sleepover afterward.

Billy caught a 4 lb walleye!

Saturday we went to the gym and played basketball, and then went home and showered before going to the family Christmas. Everyone was there except one of my mom's sister's family from Illinois. It was an enjoyable evening to spend time with our cousins, as we don't get the privilege very often! (Supper was delicious too!)

Adult supper table (Medium-sized adults table to the right)

The uncles: Rob, Dad, Tony, Bruce

This young boy kept everyone entertained for an extended period of time. (Sidenote: Alyssa and Abby did not plan their amazing color coordination.)  

Sunday we went to church, and then some of the cousins came over for appetizers in the evening. We left early Monday morning to come home. And then naptime?! NO!! Immediately we unpacked and Mom started cleaning and beginning preparations for the Massner Christmas at our house on New Year's Day. We went to church and then spent the rest of the evening with friends and family until the new year arrived. 

Tuesday was my Dad's family's Christmas! Everyone was here except the ones from Arizona, I believe. It was great to be with everyone and spend the afternoon with them. 

How do the great-grandkids always seem to steal the show?
This little girl kept the big kids entertained after lunch.

Dad keeps Andi and Grandma "Perplexed"

Yesterday the boys enjoyed their last day off school before heading back today. Life is somewhat returning to normal for everyone around here...except me! I'm not really sure what I will do to keep myself busy for two and a half more weeks, but I'm sure I'll think of something!

We wish you all of God's greatest blessings in 2013!