December... Where did 2008 go?

Ahhh...December...love this month! Today is December 31th - the last day of the year 2008! It seems unbelievable! It went by so fast. As I look at these pics of my girls, I must say, it's a little bittersweet. The year went by so quickly. Did I say that already? And, at times, I find myself wishing the world would just slow down a little so that I can have a few extra moments to enjoy my little ones, while they are still little and so precious. The Lord is bringing us another little one in the new year of 2009, just 5 1/2 weeks away. And that is very exciting - but at the same time, it is just another reminder of how quickly the ones I already have are growing. But, I have to say that I have had a great year. And, this December was especially special. I love Christmas time and watching my kids during this time of year - Kyla was absolutely excited to wait for Santa to come on Christmas Eve. She could barely sleep and kept waking up to see if he had come yet or not. And Emery, on Christmas morning, just followed along with anything that "Sissy" did. So, she was just as excited. And, Kyla just turned 5 on the 19th! So much happens during this month. Here are a few snap shots from the month of December. Such a great time of year!





Hey Mauro, where did my head go? Needless to say, this pic did not make it onto the Christmas card.



Kyla and Auntie Holly at the park near Auntie Holly's new San Fran apt. Michela and the kids were there too to make Christmas cookies.




The HUGE buzzard that landed in my back yard - and no, it is not a Hawk - it's a turkey vulture - or as we call them, "Buzzards".




Kyla and her birthday gift. Her my Twinn Doll, "Lyla". Get it - Kyla and Lyla! Ha - I'm so clever!




Yay, SANTA!!! But notice how Emery was not too excited about seeing him??? I'd be careful if I was her. Doesn't he see you when you are pouting, and naughty and nice and such... Oh wait... He was right there, of course he saw her...




My mom made me a pair of pajamas for Christmas...Something doesn't feel quite right??? Do these make me look fat?




Emery opening her Diego doll on Christmas Morning - it even says her name! And it tells her when it is time to wake up, eat, take a nap, and go to bed. So cool! She is totally in love with Diego. Can't blame her - he's a hot latino - she is her mother's daughter, after all!