One year ago today

As the year comes to a close, it's always fun to reflect back on all that has happened in the past 12 months. This has been a truly special year full of sweet memories. Cole has grown from a baby into a little boy. And what a wonderful little boy he has become. Here he is exactly one year ago. Look at those chubby cheeks and crazy hair! I love you, Cole. Writing now with tears streaming down my cheeks ... I've been very emotional recently about Cole growing up. Pregnancy hormones? Maybe. It's a happy-sad, though. It's such a joy to watch him grow up. I just want to soak up every last moment with him. And that's a resolution for 2010 (and beyond) - be present and live in the moment. Take time to be grateful for all that we have and those in our lives. xo

Enjoying the holidays

We had a wonderful, wonderful, wonderful Christmas and are still enjoying the holidays as Cory is off until the 4th. Lots of relaxing and family time - perfect! Here are a couple photos from my mom's camera. More to come ...

Getting ready for Santa, who Cole still looks for every morning.

Thank you, Grandma, for the singing Santa!

More singing toys = a happy Cole

Grandma took Cole to the annual Starker Tree Hunt party, where he loved hanging out with Kaiana, searching for a tree, singing Christmas carols and toasting marshmallows.

Go Vikings!

The kids in their matching PJs on Christmas Eve. Don't you just love Cole's accessories?

Christmas lunch at my parents house consisted of potato chowder and cinnamon rolls. I know, sounds like a funny combination, but it works. Both were delish. And, of course, the traditional Christmas crackers, which gave us crowns, toys and bad jokes.

Donuts with Dad

Today's advent calendar contained a fun activity for Cole and Cory - donuts with dad! Sad that I couldn't partake (no gluten free donuts at Safeway) - I miss the occasional maple bar! Cole loved it, of course.

let the festivities begin!

The house is decorated (as much as it gets decorated for the holidays), the tree is up, and the lights are hung. It's feeling festive around here and I love it! I even lit my favorite Christmas candle today. Mmmmm ... it even smells like Christmas! Cole is loving it all and gets so excited about every little thing. Each morning he has to go look at the tree, we turn the lights on, and then go open his advent calendar. More pictures coming soon, but here are a couple.