Happy New Year!

We counted down the seconds with the kids until 8 o'clock... then rang in the new year. Martinelli's, cheese ball, donuts, noise makers, confetti poppers outside, and of course, running through the streets in the buff banging pots and pans all made our transition to 2008 special. Okay, the last one we just talked about doing. It's pretty cold outside. Anyway, hope you all have a wonderful New Year!

Twas now Christmas morning

...When upon my bed there arose such a clatter, 4 little children bubbly with chatter. I couldn't spring to my feet, I knew not why... till I looked at the clock, and held back a cry. Their excitement so merry and contagious this day, I fondly remembered when I felt such a way. So placing a smile atop my face, I got out of bed and picked up the pace. Then down the stairs we hustled to see, what Santa had left for my family and me...

Santa's gifts made each child's eyes so bright, I could hardly contain what remained out of sight.

For when they had finished what was under the tree, the gifts from us were yet to see.

The stage almost finished, the spotlight aglow, sat four wrapped presents tied with a bow.

Instruments, karaoke, and microphone in hand, we knew the next step was the "Big Ross Band".

I'm not sure whom the theatre was for, was it the kids or us who enjoyed it more?

As all other Christmas' must come to an end, we are most grateful for the fun together as family and friend.

Nativity Christmas Eve

This is a snapshot from the nativity reenactment in the barn !

Twas the night before Christmas...

...and all through the house, not a creature was stirring not even a mouse. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that St. Nickolas soon would be there.

The children were nestled all snug in there beds,

while visions of sugar cookies danced in their heads.

They curled up in new pajamas so snuggly this year, warm and fleecy bringing only good cheer.

...then dressed all in robes from their toe to their ear, they eagerly awaited the new star to appear...

(to be continued...)

Meet our new Christmas baby !

Saturday, Dec. 22, 2007 Gracie Kibbles became the newest member of our family. She is a 10 week old boxer- retriever mix. She has a very laid back personality and loves everyone ! This is the puppy Sasha has been hoping for !

Esposas Por Favor

In early December, one of my good friends from my mission invited me to join him for a week long trip back to the old stomping grounds in Salta, Argentina. As usual, we soon found trouble. The Salta police helped us find a place to eat and expand our Spanish vocabulary. We quickly found out that the word for wife or spouse is the same word used for handcuffs (esposas).

We spent some time in the hills just outside of Salta in a place called San Lorenzo. We took in the local spa, did some ATV tours and enjoyed the local cuisine (just how we had remembered it). As usual, we ran into some of the local livestock along the way. I think this would be a good place for Larry to start up the old ranch. I could be the translator.

On one of the days in Salta we hiked the San Bernardo mountain. There is a cable car that takes visitors up and down the mountain. We decided to do it the hard way by hiking up the mountain and taking the cable car down. The view was worth it though.

During our week long stay in Salta we decided to try another "resort" outside of a small town 2 hours south of Salta. The "resort" had tons of bugs on the ground (inside the hotel) and we had to be the youngest people there. We were happy we had only booked 1 night at this fabulous "resort".

Buenos Aires is famous for its Tango. When Amy, Gavin and I went there 5 years ago we even saw a show called Senor Tango. This time, I didn't need to see Senor Tango as there were plenty of performers throughout the streets in the shopping districts. - BRETT

Kansas Ice Storm 07

Hey Hey, 'Kansas Halls' reporting to the rest of the Fam. You may have herd we have been experiencing quite the ice storm. We have not experienced anything like this in years. We have captured some of the destruction and some of the Beauty to share with you.

The Last Kansas Hall to Sign-in!

Whew...I am finally logged on! I have my very own id and password so I think I am set. I didn't need Wade for that part but I think I will need him for the picture part. There is a reason I have little brothers...not only can Wade cook, but he is a tech guy too! Chase is great for comedy...and he is a homeowner so I will never run out of places to stay when I come home!

I am so excited to check out our family site. I think it is a wonderful idea! I love the pictures and comments and birthday list too! This is a fantastic way for us to keep in touch over the miles! I will be sure to check back in often. Take care!

Love,
~Dandra :)

Christmas Past

I will never forget the anticipation and excitement of waking up Christmas morning and us kids waking each other up and getting the folks rounded up to see what Santa had brought for us. But now that I am experiencing fatherhood the most memorable times are the Christmas experiences I have had with my own children. Decorating the Christmas trees over the years is what stands out in my mind the most. Hear are a few pics from Christmas past. (1) Chase 1989 first bike!! (2) Wade 1993 (3) Dandra, Wade and Chase hangin with Santa 1993. (4) Wade 1994 sportin new duds. (5) Chase 1994 sportin new duds. (6) Chase and Wade 1995 'Buds'. (7) Chase and Wade 1996. (8) Chase 1996. (9) Chase and Wade 1998. (10) Chase and Wade 2000.