2009 is almost here!

Tonight we went to a New Year's Eve party at our pastor's house. We had a great time fellowshipping and playing games. However, Aubrey was completely wired because of all the people. At 9:45, she was still going strong, so we left to wind her down and get her in the bed. She fell asleep about 10:30. Someone is going to be cranky tomorrow, especially because her molars are about to come in...
I misplaced my camera over the holidays and didn't find it until December 26th, so we don't have any pictures from Christmas. Hopefully the grandparents can email us some. However, tomorrow we're going to begin the festivities that countdown to my brother's wedding with Christmas celebrated late on my mom's side. I can't believe my little brother is getting married in 3 days. He's actually older than I was when I got married, but he still seems too young to be out on his own. I'm very excited for him and his fiancee though. I think they're going to be a great match for one another.
Normally this time of year, I would already have a list of my resolutions, but I've decided not to do any this year. Those of you that know me, know that I make lists. I make lists of the lists I need to make. So, instead of listing "make less lists" as one of my resolutions, I'm not going to write down any resolutions. I'm taking Brett's approach- if you don't write down any resolutions, there are none to break.
We hope everyone has an incredible New Year! Be sure to check back next week for pictures from the wedding. Congratulations, Alan and Melanie! We love you!

-Lauren

Happy Birthday, Brett!

Yesterday was Brett's birthday. Unfortunately, we have been passing a cold around and yesterday was my worst day. To top it off, Brett had to work 11 to 7 as well. I did make his favorite breakfast yesterday, but that was about it. And, so I wouldn't have to go pick up a cheesecake, my sweet mother-in-law made one instead. So, tonight, we're going out to eat with some friends and celebrate his birthday.
I never tell Brett enough how much I love him and how amazing he is. I am so proud of him and all his accomplishments and goals. I am incredibly thankful to the Lord for bringing us together, because His plans were infinitely greater than mine! Brett is an amazing husband and father, and I love how genuine and understanding he is. I could go on, but instead I'll wrap it up.

Happy Birthday, Brett! I love you, and I hope we celebrate many more of your birthdays together!

Aubrey is 15 months old!

Aubrey had her 15 month checkup on Tuesday. She is now 24 pounds, 9 ounces, and 33 inches long. She was so brave. Even though Aubrey had two shots, she only cried for a few minutes. Aubrey now has seven teeth, and the doctor said her molars would be coming in soon.
We can't wait for Christmas! Last year since Aubrey was only 3 months old, she didn't really know what was going on. Now, she's walking around, pulling ornaments off the tree, and enjoying all the lights and songs. I'm excited about really establishing our Christmas traditions this year. We read (or try to read) a story to Aubrey every night from her beginner's Bible. We've been all the way through it once, and we're back to David becoming king now. I'm trying to read about 5 stories a night now so that hopefully on Christmas Eve, we can read to her about Jesus's birth. That is a tradition that came from my side of the family. When we would get back home from our Christmas Eve service, my brother and I would talk my mom into opening stockings. Then, after relaxing for a while and hanging out, the very last thing we would do before going to bed was read from Luke 2. The Christmas that Brett and I were engaged, I spent Christmas Eve with my family, then spent the night at his parents' house that night. I remember being so upset because I misssed the Christmas story with my family. Poor Brett had no idea why I was upset until I told him the next day. Since then, we have made that one of our traditions as well.
8 days until Christmas and only 1 day of school left until 2009! I'm so excited to be home with Aubrey for a couple of weeks!
-Lauren

Aubrey is walking!

Aubrey has been walking holding on to anyone and anything for over a month now, and Brett and I were trying so hard not to push her. Apparently, she's pretty cautious like her mother! Well, yesterday at my parents' house, she walked towards one of her toys twice. I did get it on video. We were so excited because it was 4 or 5 steps-- not just one or two. Our baby is getting so big!

-Lauren