Merry Christmas!

Instead of sending out a Christmas letter to everyone we decided to do it on our blog... saving paper and money. =)
We have had an amazing year. It was our first year in Florida as a family.
We decided to try for another baby when Shepherd turned 1 in January 2011. We got pregnant the first try! We were blessed with our daughter on October 25th 2011. She is 7 weeks old and just the sweetest thing. She is starting to coo and talk a lot. We've seen her smile several times. She is very active and alert. She nurses all the time and is gaining weight. She is so beautiful! She looks just like my sister Renee!
Shepherd is growing up so fast. He still doesn't talk much. He mostly talks at home around the family. That's probably because we are the only ones who understand him! =) He signs a lot too. The main thing is he is communicating and telling us what he wants. He understands us and is getting better everyday at following instructions.
We haven't tried potty training yet. He hasn't showed any interest and I really don't want to have to chase after him with a newborn. =) We might give it a try after he turns 2 in January. It's all up to him. We won't force him.
He loves playing outside more then anything else. My parents got him a big swingset with a fort on it. He would play on that all day long if we let him. =)
He loves Disney movies. His favorites... Up!, Meet the Robinsons, Toy Story, Cars, Cars 2, Monsters Inc. He still loves watching the Wiggles, but it's nice for the grown-ups to have different options.
Sheppy took swimming lessons at the beginning of summer. He did well, but we'll have to take them again next summer to build on the skills he already learned. Shep goes to gymnastics once a week. He has a great time and is improving every week. I love that he is learning to socialize, discipline, waiting his turn. It's great exercise for me too. =)
Abby is such a wonderful addition to our little family. Shepherd lights up like a firefly when he sees her. He wants to sit next to me when I nurse her. Shep is always giving her kisses on her head and just snuggling up next to her. It's so precious!
Marvin is working hard! He works full-time and fulfills all his church callings. Marvin was able to find an wonderful job right away when we moved here, with Manatron (now Thomson Reuters). He loves what he's doing and who he works with. He never ceases to amaze me with his willingness to serve others. He is an amazing husband and father. He takes such good care of us. Marvin is the best protector and provider I could have every wished for.
As for me... I'm loving life. Being married to my best friend, having 2 great kids, family close by. I know none of this would be possible without my loving Heavenly Father. Also, without my savior Jesus Christ I would be no where. I want my kids to know the true meaning of Christmas... the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
We love you all!