New Year's Eve

Jen and John had everyone over for a New Year's eve Pajama bash that included a regifting party.  Fun was had by all and we managed to find homes for some gifts that weren't quite what we wanted :)

CK and I watched the replay of the ball dropping in NYC in bed so technically we made it to midnight for the first time in a LONG time. 

Christmas 2015

We had a great Christmas this year.  Snow on the ground, lots of family and the kids really enjoyed it.  Here are some pictures from Christmas morning with just the 6 of us, before the rest of the LaFond/LaPraim/Pankratz-Spencer clan came over for food, more presents and games.

and one from Christmas Eve

and the whole crew on Christmas day (minus Tanner who was on his way to the East Coast to visit his girlfriend and Wyatt, Daniel and Carson who were with their Mom).  Merry Christmas!

Asher is six!

Happy sixth birthday to our no-longer-a-little-boy Asher!  You started Kindergarten this year, are playing basketball at the YMCA right now and are into everything guns/knives/swords (which your mother "loves" :)  A few other things to remember about you as you turn six:

• You hate tomatoes and make me take them off of anything and everything.  You're fine with ketchup and even salsa, but don't like tomatoes on or in anything.  You pretty much eat everything else, though.
• Your first day of school was a bit rough but since then you've loved it.  You have a great teacher, Ms. Mihelish, and just got a PERFECT report card for your very first one (seriously, ALL stars).  
• You got a bag from Auntie Jennifer this year that has your name on it and you love to carry around all kinds of things in there.  It's essentially been attached to you since you got it.  You carry everything- screws, keys, rocks.  If it's not nailed down, it likely ends up in your bag or your pockets.
• You can't wait to read.  I can tell it frustrates you sometimes that Reese can and you can't but it's only a short few months until you will be reading on your own.  
• Speaking of Reese, you are definitely coming into your own but still get frustrated as she continues to act like the older, more dominant sister.  I don't think that will last much longer as you grow and mature.  You are emotional and thoughtful and those traits will serve you well later in life as you forge your own friendships and relationships.
• For your birthday/Christmas you asked for "fake knives", "fake guns" and "fake swords".  I guess at least you knew enough to put "fake" in front? :)
• You are really good with Soren and he loves playing with you.  You "roughhouse" with him (usually initiated by Soren, actually) but you're so gentle.  He really looks up to his big brother.
• You pay attention to everything and ask really good, really detailed questions.  Reese is all about speed, getting everything done as fast as possible.  You're much more measured, contemplating things and asking questions to better understand the world.

It's been so much fun to be your parents and we love you so much.  Happy birthday Asher man!  Try not to grow up too fast, ok?

Love,

Mom and Dad