Another New Year and Look at the Last

Although last year was another year I wish we could forget, there were some pockets of truly precious times. I again, am very thankful for my two healthy girls and my awesome husband who works so hard! Dec. 21st Bella lost her first tooth. She was very reluctant to pull it out, so I reached in and grabbed it and she was surprised to find that it didn't hurt at all;) She's about to lose her second any day now - not a big deal to most people, but Bella's been waiting for these days for a long time! She still loves first grade and recently became a strong swimmer. For her AWANA points that she had earned for the first semester, she got to shop in the "store" and ended up buying me a cupcake box, because she knows I collect them! I was so impressed that she, at such a young age, could think about someone else above her own wants and desires. Natalie is doing really well also. She is finally turning a corner in her naughtiness and is able to be a rational human being - most days anyway;) She had a great year by potty training this past spring and then finally staying dry through the night by late fall. I thought the day would never come so I say Hallelujah!!!!! She loves gymnastics and is getting a little better at swimming. Although the death defying acts have become less frequent, that have not stopped coming. We went home to Joliet for Christmas and my sister had to do the Heimlich maneuver on her, because she was choking on a cookie. (sigh) At least they are fewer and further in-between:( We had a wonderful time in Joliet and I say a great big thank you to my dad "Pop" for getting up with my girls while we stayed with them every morning. He fed them and kept them busy, which allowed us to sleep in and relax. I couldn't have been happier:) The girls got everything they wanted for Christmas thanks to them and of course that makes me thankful, because it takes the stress off of us. I am most thankful that we still get to celebrate another Christmas with both of my grandmas who are so incredibly healthy and agile - one of which is about to turn 90! Aaron's grandma Combs is doing better, so thank you for your prayers! She and Grandpa just celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary - congratulations you guys! We didn't think that she would make it until Christas, so that was a wonderful gift. Speaking of gifts....... we welcome the newest member of the Combs family - Aaron's sister Shannon had a baby girl on December 23 and her name is Rebekah Marie Buys. She is so sweet and everyone has loved giving her kisses. Congrats to Shannon and Adam who are awesome parents - we are so proud of you! When we got to the hospital to see Becca for the first time, Natalie says "this where we go to visit sick granmas". We have been there so much over her lifetime, that she recognized the parking garage:( Another funny Natism of 2010 (when she had a headach) "my forehead hurts". I wish I could keep a better record of all the funny things she says. I hope everyone is staying healthy enough this season - we have had a lot of sickness in our household since the fall. God bless you All!