These are some things I've been wanting to post about, but I haven't had the time...
I feel like I'm just starting to get back on track. I've been leading a crazy life since Thanksgiving. I'm just starting to feel refreshed and ready to start... Although I don't know what I'm starting... I guess a normal life again.
I'm now faced with the decision of how to make next December different. I really enjoyed the past month, but I don't think it was healthy or best for my family. (Judging mainly on the fact that all three of us were sick the entire time.) I know what's most important, but I don't know how to apply those priorities to December... Please pray for me for wisdom.
I never really had hobbies in my life until Andrew was born. I think that's one of the benefits of being a stay-at-home mom. I never had time to do something like blog before. When I saw December coming, I knew my hobbies would be the first things to go. I was sad to have to put blogging on hold, but you were patient with me. I was sad to cut out running, but I'm getting back into shape fine. I was sad to stop my Mandarin CD's for a month, but I can pick it up again with a little effort. I was most sad to give up time with friends that I'm used to... Playdates "for Andrew" and dinner with the
Encarnacions and walks to the park... Those kinds of things... This is what I wish I had more time for. Is anyone else on board for making December a few days longer???
I'm learning to cook without wheat, dairy, or eggs being those are the things Andrew is allergic to. Try it. It's a much healthier way to live.
I didn't eat ice cream for over a month and I haven't died yet.
Andrew is walking!!! January 4th (in Nevada City), Andrew took his first steps from his Nonnie to me!!! It's been constant daily improvement since then. What a stud! He also has 11 teeth now. Watch your fingers!
I am SO excited about the marathon. I'm registered and everything. I can't believe I'm actually going to do this. The thought of crossing the finish line got me teary-eyed the other day... I am such a girl! (Weird thing- I never used to cry. Now (after Andrew being born), I just can't help it. I'm a total wimp!)
I think that about covers it. I hope I didn't bore any of you too much... By the way, did any of you notice that the tree in my last entry is planted in contcrete completely? Only at South Coast Plaza!
I guess Andrew is getting to the age that kids start doing funny/potentially embarassing things. On Friday, he "met" a girl at the park and immediately started holding her hand... he moves fast! I'm surprised he hasn't gotten her number yet! On Saturday, he did a double take of a cute 1.5 yr-old girl and spun around 180-degrees to chase her down. At this rate, I'll be sending out wedding invitations before summer!
How often do 2 1-yr-olds play together? Not very often. That's why we have a picture of it. Here's another funny (the funniest) story for you. After the above exciting fire truck ride, Joshua was changed into his jammies including a diaper change. Andrew sat close by to watch and make sure everything went all right. (I guess.) Once Joshua had his diaper on, he rolled over so that he was on his belly at which time Andrew took the opportunity to pat Joshua on the rear 5 or 6 times. In Gabe's (Joshua's dad's) words, it felt like we were at the Super Bowl and Andrew was saying, "Nice diaper change, Joshua. Way to go, man."
My sister, 
Annalise was showing off some new tricks for us here.
We had a great time hanging out at the Barbers' house. I love their "new" house and it was the perfect place for the holidays. All three of us were sick when we got there so we spent a large amount of time on these couches resting. One reason I love Gabe's family is for their love for music and "the arts". It's not unusual to spend an evening playing the guitar and singing or listening to Jesse recite poetry that he has memorized. I love it!
We had a fun time exploring and looking for good sledding paths.
Noah and Andrew celebrating their big days together... as twins always do!
