Here is it...

THE FIRST PICTURE OF THE NEW YEAR!

OK, not really. I took a lot of photos as the clock struck 12 however since this is tradition and it's what I choose to call it, so we shall.

And in case you aren't aware, this Holmes family has a tradition that started Cori's first New Year's Eve. Actually, just before we went to bed that New Year 11 years ago, we held out a camera at arm's length and took a photo of the three of us.

Every year thereafter we did the same thing. Just before going to sleep we held out the camera and took a photo. When Cassi came along we piled in a little closer and by the time Cali came we had added a few family members that are always with us that night and have even had some visiting family every now and then.

As our numbers grew it became harder to hold the camera at arms length and get a photo that included every one. And although we always try to take it that way we have often had to have a friend take the photo before they leave the house.

Since Amber was with us this year, as was Wren, and we are all getting a little bigger, it was almost impossible to get a good photo that we all fit in. To be sure we had some thing to keep forever and always Veon stayed long enough to take a few photos for us.

Here is wishing you the best for 2009. My wish is that we all be happy, healthy and grateful.