New Year's 2009

Lexie and Brady begged and begged to have a New Year's Party. I kept putting them off because Gary had to work New Year's Day. Finally, on Wed., night as we were going to bed, I asked Gary if he would like to have a few friends over. He said sure. I sent out e-mails thinking no one would come because it was such short notice. We wound up with 23 guests! I made 2 kinds of soup, some dip, and Alyssa made a desert. Everyone brought snacks and sodas. We played Wii, board games, Nertz, and had a great time. The little kids commandered my bedroom for movies and the basement for running and screaming. Brady was in charge of the little kids--once he figured out to separate the boys from the girls, he did a super fantastic job. My computer was acting up and our good friend Jeff (who does computers for a living) sat right down and straightened it out.

Here is Lexie looking at a Planet Earth book with Madison Richter.

Closest to farthest: Kale Bartholomew, Will Richter, Emma Diegel, Mara Bartholomew, Carson Bartholomew.

Chris Diegel, Rachel Diegel, and Rachel's mom, Melinda Charter.

Sarah Charter

Lee Bartholomew, Kristen Bartholomew, and Me.

Rachel with her tiny one, Alana.

This handsome guy needs no introduction! He was in charge of the Wii and took some pictures for me, alas--he couldn't escape Alyssa's mad photography skills.

Thanks for the great shots Alyssa. Now, where is the picture of you? Hmmm.. are you learning that "hide behind the lens" secret?

Lee, Melinda, Tiffany Richter, Lexie, Madison, and Rayna Viola.

Gary and Mike Richter looking like they are up to something.

Branden Lewis--wishing he was in charge of taking the pictures.

Jeff Viola, Gary, and Mike Richter. No one gets hurt playing this kind of basketball.

While it wasn't Bear Claw Poppy or Grandma Pat's house and there were not fireworks or pots and pans--We are grateful to our friends who love us and shared their New Year's Eve with us. It was a super fun night and we hope to repeat it next year!