Goodbye 2008, Hello 2009!

Well, the holiday season has “officially” ended and it's time to rehash all the wonderful memories made. This is the time of year where we look back at the past entries and stroll down blog memory lane - it is amazing to see how much Benjamin has grown and changed from a brunette to a blond, from a baby who barely could sit up to a running toddler, and from a gummy grin to a toothy smile. Where did the time go? And seriously, who knew his hair would become more and more blond?

Things we will fondly remember about 2008:

First we will start with Benjamin's firsts (to name just a few):

1.Steps
2.Words
3.Teeth
4.Birthday Party
5.Haircut
6.Consistent “sleeping through the night” nights
7.Visit to zoo
8.Scrape, bruise, and cut
9.Playgroup
10.Plane trips
11.International trip - Jamaica
12.Wedding
13.Beer – just kidding – just checking to see if you are still reading
14.Family Reunion
15.Hurricane
16.Swim Lessons
17.Too many diapers changes
18.Our precious Stoney's final moments with us
19.Presidential Election

AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST: BIG NEWS:
So, we have known, and as most of you already know – we have some rather big changes fast approaching us this upcoming year. Papi has been offered a new position in a new location. We will be heading south to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for a couple of years and although we will miss our friends, family, and neighbors – it will be a wonderful time to explore not only who we all are but also a time to explore the a new country, culture, and travel together.

We hope you all will continue to join us in the blogsphere for yet another year of Benjamin news – just this time it will be in a different country.

We will never forget the importance of all things that happened in 2008 (good and bad) because they have made all of us who we are today. We are strengthened by our friends, neighbors, and family's strength, conviction, and love. Thank you for being you and loving us for who we are. We love you all. Happy New Year - here's to a prosperous, healthy, exciting, and interesting year.