Year End

Somehow 2009 came and went. Now poof we're facing 2010. I have neglected our blog. Let me make some excuses, or rather fill you in on our happenings of '09.


Where to begin....Trips. If there is one thing we like to do it's take trips. This year we managed to make it to St. Louis twice; once in March for Zada's birthday and then again for Thanksgiving. We brought James' parents with us this past November. They experienced their very first American Thanksgiving and Black Friday. We spent a week in Collingwood, Ontario in July. It just so happened that the Elvis Festival was on the week that we were there, we had fun seeing all the followers. While there James, Ed and myself spent the day mountain biking and eventually making our way down a ski hill! Loads of fun! We did some swimming. However the water was not warm at all - but it's something as a August born warm-blooded Missourian I must learn to accept. We of course made a couple camping trips throughout the summer.

We did have a couple visitors this summer - My parents. They came in July/August for two weeks. What a great visit! Zada had a blast because she had Grandma and Papa all to herself while James and I worked. We did manage to get some little side trips in as well.

Zada finished up Grade 1 in June and traveled up to Grade 2. She was enrolled in Figure Skating at the beginning of the year but found skating wasn't really her thing. Over the summer she took gymnastics which she really enjoys and is always eager to go to class. She has recently expressed an interest in ballet. She graduated to Brownies this September, which she loves. She was just tested for her first interest badge before winter break. Her interest - woodworking! She made a treasure box and used a couple different tools and learn all about safety.














James and Zada visiting Ottawa Transportation.

James and I are doing great! I ran in my first 10km race in November.

What an amazing experience. I am still training and increasing my distance weekly. My goal is to run a half marathon in 2010. I am still happily employed at the same law firm and still enjoy going to work. James is still employed - making sure the Government's computer systems run smoothly. In January of this year I had the opportunity to head down to Parliament Hill (Canada's Government buildings) to see President Obama. Though I didn't get to see him up-close and personal I did get a chance to snap a few photos! Then just a week ago the Olympic flame traveled through Ottawa. We got to see it en-route to downtown. We stood next to one of the runner carrying the flame!

I'd say we have had a pretty fun year and look forward to an amazing 2010!

We'd like to wish all of our friends and family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I plan to be much better at blogging!

Cheers!

James, Linda and Zada