New Year's Eve

 My very favorite cousin ever Di was in town and took a time out to come and hang out for a few hours. Her boys are about 6 weeks older than PJ. One pairs up with PJ and the other with Brie and they have a very good time! While Di and I cannot seem to have one complete conversation the hours race by. It is always fun times when we are together.

Anderson

The cousins from Michigan came in for Pop's party and stayed to relax with us for a couple days.  Having a December 29th birthday means you get to celebrate with this fun bunch. The girls made a birthday sign, wrapped a present and grabbed some dilly bars, TADA a birthday celebration! We all enjoyed the fun.

 cannot pass up a dilly bar! yummy!

Pop's Birthday!

 It was a surprise birthday party for pop! He is celebrating a big one this year and so Granny wanted it to be special. She held an open house for friends of past and present to come and wish Pop a happy day!

 Pop remains the winning-est Women's Swim Coach in Iowa history, we are just a little proud of our pop! at one point the rolling chairs led to a race.... not the safest idea.

 here are a good number of the children who were present to wish Pop a happy birthday!

a priceless pose of Kayla and her Pop with Hayden Herkie.  In the end I think Pop had a great party and got to visit with lots of people and is looking forward to what the year ahead may bring his way.

Godparents

Godparents of my kiddos from Karla's side...

my Godchild Matt

Godparents on Pete's side....

Pete and Karla's Godchild Zach. Pete's Goddaughters' Emily and Delia.

Pete family pictures

 Because two people feel in love this is the result! 4 kids and 13 grandchildren.
We tried family pictures and this is what we got. One was feeling sad and did not want pictures so we are minus one grandchild.

 This is the extended family with an uncle and a few more cousins! A good time was had by all!!

 Peter's family

Kelleen's family

 Sean's family

Sisters over the years!

Cousins

 Pop got a surprise when his niece Donna arrived from Connecticut to visit. We have not seen her in many years. it was a pleasant surprise and she is such a joy. Just a wonderful lady and I am so happy my kids had the chance to meet her.  Her sister made and mailed Pop a tray of goodies, some of his favorites that his grandmother use to make. He enjoy each and every bit!

 Random cousin pictures and images of what Christmas means at Pete's family house when you spend multiple days together.  Many variety of groups, lots of games, and just hanging out relaxing.

 These 3 are all 9 born with in 4 months of each other.

 my sweet baby, not often am I the one getting my picture taken.

 Gus LOVES Granny's singing!

 more games

 This is a very good portrayal of morning breakfast! Many generations helping one another prepare and get food. At one point the kitchen served multiple meals to 31 people! Granny and Auntie Leigh Ann(who also lives in town) are amazing in the kitchen and making if seem effortless they pull off GREAT meals!