Happy New Year Everyone!!

It has been a busy month and I have neglected my blog, but I

Thank you for checking in. I wasn't sure if I should write a bunch of short posts, or one long one. I opted for the long one. Here is a bit of what has been going on in our lives

lately.

The first part of December Katie and I took a trip to California to visit CBU.

Two of Katie's friends from there came a long and they had a great time catching up and spending time together.

I was able to stay with Marlene and Steve and visit Tom and Kari in the desert. It was also nice to be warm for a little while.

Briana, Audrey and Katie

We didn't have many guests at camp during December, but there still seemed to be lots to do. We worked on getting our 2011 summer brochures ready to print, as well as some year end things. It is hard to believe that Camp Registrations, as well as summer staff applications, will be coming in soon. We have really enjoyed the quietness of winter, but as always, we will welcome the business of summer when the time comes.

Lisa was scheduled to come in late on the 21st, so we got to Buffalo early to do some last minute shopping. Of course Lisa had to spend the night in Chicago, (again), but was able to catch the first flight out in the morning. It was so wonderful to see her and although she was very tired, we drug her along to do some more shopping before heading home.

Christmas Eve is always special. Fondue again, before going to church.

It was discussed and decided that it takes 3 times to make a tradition. What do you think?

Once is, well,........once. Two times is,.... "That was fun, lets do it again". Three times, a tradition is created! We will see what next year brings! This year was #2.

Church was wonderful! Lots of singing and special time of worship, bring our hearts to focus on the reason we celebrate. Looking not only at the manger, but at the Cross and the empty tomb as well!!

Here are some photos of Christmas

Katie gave Lisa a picture that she had Holly paint of Ribbon. Katie has had it since she was in California last March for Spring break. She was so excited to finally give it to Lisa. Holly's husband, Pete made the frame so it is an extra special treasure.

New Coat!

Katie also got Ice Skates. All of her friends have been skating since they could walk, but she does well. We find that most places don't even rent skates, everyone just brings their own.

What girl doesn't need a pair of red mittens from Canada?

Who's gift is it anyway? We all enjoyed Ken's new Keurig

Love my shirt from Corban!

Christmas Dinner

Still catching up on much needed rest!

A perfect spot to read.

On the 26th we headed to the Nations Capital, Ottawa. We had gotten the information and had planned out what we wanted to do while we were there. Unfortunately much of the attractions were closed until after the first of the year. We still enjoyed ourselves and did get to see some things. We had a comfortable room with a kitchen, so we were able to relax and just spend time together.

Canadian Museum of Civilization

This museum featured "The Horse" which was interesting.

The museum was actually across the river in Quebec.

How many "hands" tall is Lisa?

From the Quebec side we had a beautiful view of the back side of Parliament

It was a very cold day!

One of the things that we were most looking forward to was the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police), tour. "Closed until January 3rd".

Parliament was open and we were able to go inside . All the buildings are so old and ornate. Very beautiful!

This was taken in the Rotunda of the Parliament building.

Lisa's Birthday isn't until the 10th but we thought that we should celebrate a little early since she would not be with us on her birthday.

We went to the "Symposium". This was the third birthday that we celebrated there. Must be a tradition!!!

Happy 22nd Birthday, Dear Lisa!!

We put Lisa on the plane on Wednesday. Does that ache ever go away?

We had such a wonderful time together and cherish all the moments that we had.

January is full as we get back to regular life again.

Guests start coming in,

school fund raisers,

puppy class,

play practice,

snow removal,

and the list goes on.... Just like yours. We miss you all and wish you a wonderful 2011!