The Shape of Things to Come

I realize that my blog has really turned into a photo album, rather than any sort of forum for discussion or actual blog of my (and my family's) life. I hope to amend this and start posting actual bits of text and information other than photos!! I'll start with the announcement that I'm officially returning to college in April, and will be attending the College of Saint Catherine (St. Kate's) in St Paul. They have a program specifically geared for working adults that will enable me to finish my four year degree in two years and only take class on Friday evenings and every other weekend. I'm hoping to maintain my current GPA so that I'll be offered some sort of (monetary) incentive to stay on there and complete my Master's. We'll see.....

In other news, as if any of you didn't already know, today is the day that Barack Obama will become the 44th President of the United States. It's an occasion marked by joyous pomp and circumstance, and for those of us who are smart enough to be realistic, there is a little bit of trepidation at the shape of things to come. With bailouts, increased spending, tax cuts, stimulus packages, and the overall size of government on the rise and common sense on the decline, I can say that I am somewhat skeptical of what good 'ol Barry O will do for our nation. I'm hopeful, and I'm excited, and I'm genuinely looking to be impressed. Either way, today will be a day to remember.

And I'm so excited to see what Michelle will be wearing.....

And I'd like to go on the record as stating, that I'm over Oprah the way the rest of the nation is over Bush. Seriously. Can we inagurate someone else into the "Most Powerful Woman in the World" seat? I'll start taking suggestions.....

And More Great Photos

She still reaaaaaaaally loves to climb into baskets, buckets, toy chests, etc. This one was nearly to small, but it didn't stop her.

love love love this picture.

My little L.A. Lady

Finally, Christmas Pictures

A very large "Thank You" to Santa Claus for bringing me the fabulous Nikon camera that made these pictures possible. I hope you enjoy looking at these pictures as much as I enjoyed taking them. There are a few that are my favorite of all time....Elena looking out the door at my Mom's place, Belle on the couch, Elena playing with the tealight holder at my Dad's. At the risk of sounding redundant, Christmas truly was amazing.

Logan looking rather dapper.

Elena Sandwich

Possibly her favorite Christmas gift. Thanks Great-Grandpa!

Daddy's Girl

Watching for Santa

That kitchen's made three generations of little ones VERY happy....

Elena and Papa Al

DRL, Me, Elena, and Grampa Mac (my dad)

This tea light holder was the best thing EVER.

Being cute.

Our fabulous, and often forgotten, dog Belle.