First snow

Our first snow with enough to really play in was perfect! It was on a Saturday so Aaron was home and the snow was perfect for packing. The kids were out in it all day building a snow fort and sledding down our little hill.

Monster snowball

Aaron gave the kids rides on the sled and they loved it. He had to be really careful because we have so many trees in our yard.

Christmas in Ohio

Celebrating Christmas with Mama and Papa Allen

Playing Bingo with all of the cousins

Aaron's oldest niece, Rudi turned 18 two days before Christmas.

Madelyn was so proud of her new Christmas p.j.'s

The cousins had so much fun wrestling together. Wrestling is a favorite sport of all of the Allen boys!

Most of the Allen cousins (plus 2 exchange students)

Master Aaron

Aaron had his final exam last night for his final class in his MBA program. His graduation is in two days, though we aren't attending. In fact, due to the convenience of online classes, we haven't ever even been on campus!

This is how Aaron has spent many a night the past two years while "attending" class. Classes are broadcast over the internet so he can sit and watch and even comment via webcam. He graduated from undergrad when Justin was about four months old. Justin will be eleven in two months and we now have five more kids. Someone at work recently asked him what he was going to do with his free time. I don't think he will have any problem filling it!

11 months and not counting!

Naomi was eleven months old yesterday. I am so not ready for her to have her birthday in just one month. I've said it before...I wish I had a pause button and could just keep her this age for awhile. She is so sweet and fun right now.

She can walk pushing this toy, chairs, etc., but is too timid to try it on her own. She will let go and just stand on her own.

This is still her preferred method of transportation.

Christmas party

Aaron's annual Christmas party was held Saturday. Frosty the Snowman was there. Madelyn broke out in tears every time she saw him!

Naomi was completely fearless and willing to sit on Frosty's lap. That will probably change next year!

Bumper bowling was a big hit with all of the kids. They were also given tokens for the arcade so they were busy running back and forth between bowling and the arcade.

Aaron and Madelyn

Me

Bruce

Will got another spare and had the high score of the day! He was so excited!