Christmas at the Hales' Household

Christmas was fun at our house on December 28th. It was just like normal. We all got up and opened stockings and presents. We even ate Tea Ring that I made this year. I should have taken a picture to prove that I really did it. The kids can all verify that it was delisious. We actually ate two of them over the course of three days. Stephanie was a nice addition this year. Nimer and her are so compatable. She fits in very well. Happy Holidays everyone!

Family

The whole family was together to mourn the loss of Betty Hales. Grandma, Great-Grandmiother and Mom. She will be missed by all of us. Here is a picture our family gathered together for this sad time.

Bridal Shower and CMU Concert

Eva was showered with beautiful gifts on Saturday. Here is a picture of Eva, Carrie and Connie. Thank you to all who made this day very special for Eva. The wedding is just around the corner.

This was on the heals of a beautiful choir Concert at CMU the previous Saturday where Eva rocked the house with her beuatiful solo. Here is a picture of her, Keith and her future mother-in law, Rose after the concert were of the Women's Choir Concert directed by Dr. Gumm.

I also added one of Eva with Grandma and Grandpa Strouse. We were all surprised since she kept it a secret from all of us. Even Keith didn't know she had a solo. Graduation is next....We will keep you posted.

Engagement Announcement

The Morning Sun for Sunday has Eva and Keith's announcement. Check it out. Wedding plans are coming together. Eva's last semester as an undergrad is started and will be over in no time at all. Shower dates are set and will be here soon.



http://www.themorningsun.com/articles/2009/02/15/life/milestones/srv0000004695204.txt

Sand and Sun

Welcome back to the States, Saoirse and Rowan!

Mexico must have been so fun. Cute bikini swimsuits, huh? Aren't they cute? We are glad they have such a great time. Thought you would enjoy seeing the wind in their hair, the sunshine in the background and the beautiful blue water. I'm jealous! Winter has seemed so long since it started so early. Enjoy!

Family

Here are a few more of the family. I put this together with some pictures that Grandma put on her blog. Grandma blogging...that is amazing. She is learning so much. I love that we can share pictures this way. It makes staying in touch with pictures so nice. It sure looks like everybody is happy and healthy. The kids are growing so fast. Keep the blogger going, Mom. Smile :-)

Cold Outside

Br-r-r-r-r-r-r-r-r-r! It sure has been cold outside. It has been in the single digits almost every morning this week. Needless to say it has been miserable first thing in the morning. I just took this picture and thought you may want to see what real snow looks like in case some of you don't see it everyday in the winter like we do. Especially you snowbirds out there! Enjoy!

Eva is getting ready to start her last semester as an undergrad. She graduates in May. It seems as though she just began. Nimer and Keith both start another semester this week, too. Bruce is giving exams this week and finishing up his first semester. Such are the school calendars. I, on the other hand, follow more of banker's calendar. We will all be back to our "normal" schedules this week. Whatever that is.... Stay healthy and smile!