Merry Christmas!

Well, the weather outside was far from frightful, and for us to even see snow would be delightful! But that doesn't stop us from enjoying our Christmas! A nice 70 degree day makes it hard to remember those cold Christmases from our youth.

It has been fun to see Isaac truly enjoy his Christmas gifts this year. Of course, when everybody spoils you with great things, it's pretty easy to enjoy it! And Caleb, well, he just likes to rip and eat paper. By the time the gift is open (with the help of Isaac & his new saw), it is usually out of his reach since Isaac has taken it upon himself to test all of Caleb's toys for him first.

We enjoyed our Christmas Eve by spending time at our close friends' house. We feasted on a tasty meal and enjoyed watching the kids play. We capped the night off by opening a few more gifts. On Christmas day we'll be driving to see Mark, Jill and Madelyn.

Merry Christmas to you all! We send you warm greetings from CA and want you to know we miss seeing you and spending the holidays all gathered together. So, if the weather is too frightful and the snow is no longer delightful, we'd love to have you come our way!

Another Birthday!

Birthdays are always a fun day for me. I love the showering of "Happy Birthdays" from family and friends, (thanks to all who called or e-mailed!), the singing from Isaac (and many others), the yummy birthday cake Danae (and Isaac) made for me, and of course the gifts.

But this birthday included something a little different. This year I had a special visitor who came all the way to CA just to see me on my birthday. Well, Isaac and Caleb were probably the main draw for Grandpa to meet up with us, I am guessing, but I had to drive them to see him! And the fact that it was my birthday made it even more special. Plus, who can pass up a free steak dinner?!? :-)

It's Christmas time in CA!

The tree is up, the lights are hanging on the outside of the house...yes, we have lights! It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas in the Lapka home! Now all we need is the lovely present you all are sending us! :) Oh, Mom, don't worry about trying to get my "car" under the tree this year, we have a spot ready in the garage! (j/k)

Isaac loves to turn the Christmas tree lights on (and off). He has even gotten in a few oohs and ahhs as we have driven around. Now we just need the snow!

We look forward to many Christmas cards and hopefully a few guests! (hint, hint)

Our new niece and cousin!

We are very excited to welcome the arrival of our newest CA family member! Danae and the boys got a chance to see Madelyn in person and captured this video. Isaac was impressed with her special bed in the hospital and talks about seeing baby Mark again! :) (Sorry, Jill!)