Owen Turned Nine Last Month

So, Owen patiently waited through a bunch of holiday stuff to celebrate his Ninth Birthday!  We eventually drove down to Boston to visit the New England Aquarium.  They had an awesome touch tank filled with rays and mini sharks.  It was amazing.

I know it only looks like there are three in the tank, but there were TONS.

This guy reminded us a lot of Uncle Jason.

Always popular: the penguins at feeding time.  One penguin pooped on the guy who looks like Uncle Jason.  Tee hee.

 The seals are cute too, but it's cold outside...

While the big kids watched an IMAX movie about sharks with Daddy, we went upstairs for a snack.

 This is how Zoey felt about Dylan offering her more food.

This is why I love Boston.  Mike's chocolate mousse cannolis.  So happy-making.

 Owen opening his birthday presents!  Lots of legos...

I'm so proud of my big boy!!!

Contra Dance circa 2011

So we didn't get a lot of photos of the Contra dance, but we got a few!  Annual Christmas Contra dance by Missio Dei...  

Festivus 2012

Those of you who know us know that we have our own little family holiday that, in its own way eclipses all other holidays throughout the year.  For the kids, it's because we do a great big gift exchange, but for me, it's because of the "presentation."  We stole the name "Festivus" from Seinfeld a while back without realizing how much it's insinuated itself into pop culture.  However, we don't do an annual airing of grievances or wrestle, and  except for the name, it's pretty much nothing like the Seinfeld version.

So, without further ado, here is our 2012 Festivus Presentation:

Happy Festivus!!!