KIDS!!*!

Ahhhh.... the family photo shoot. I look back with joy at the Christmas photo of Rich, Heidi and their two screaming boys.... I experienced that on some level today.

On the eastern wall of Mom's infamous entryway, are hanging the prized "family photos." The precious children born to Carol & Doug, LeRoy& Peggy over the past half century, along with spouses and offspring are immortalized in print for all to see. These portraits represent the sacrifices of brave parents, and the patience of Emily or other (unknowing) photographers. The updating of these photos has been a long time ritual for Mom and Dad, though often times the updates don't occur until the "new baby" is six or seven. Sometimes, TWO children are born before a new photo is hung.

I currently hold the record of oldest picture on "the wall"--circa 1993 (or '94-'95, but who's counting!?) Ah, the sweetness of those two cute boys... 6 and 4, maybe?
By virtue of the fact that I am Emily's favorite sister ;-), I was able to convince her to be our photographer at our latest photo shoot (ahem...the "favorite sister" spot is currently up for grabs). My dear, sweet children were in rare form.... These photos are just from my little point-and shoot camera, but give you a taste of this afternoon... Thank goodness for Photoshop and Em's stellar skills. You'll just have to keep checking "the wall" to see if anything turns out. If something actually works I'll think I'll send everyone a copy!

Note to Rich and Heidi... you ain't seen nothin' yet!!

Now I've been "tagged"....

6 Things you don't know about me.... (er, well, maybe you do)

1. I've only had a digital camera since June of this year (WHERE have I been all my life?), and just learned to put the pictures in files, hmmmm, maybe 3 weeks ago! I can also now add them as an attachment, or up load them onto the computer. Boy, do I feel like a rocket scientist. Now I just need to figure out how to have cool music on my blog like everyone else. Please don't hold your breath!

2. I really want to find some time to paint.... I used to actually be pretty good back in 7th grade. I'd actually love to go back to Italy and spend more time there.

3. I have been a nurse for TWENTY years now! I think I might start looking for a new profession.

4. The "empty nest" is coming for me very soon. Tyler will be 18 in just 6 months, with big plans to fly the coop as fast as possible. I'm going to kick Ian out of the house then, too. At first, I was a bit sad... but I got over it! So expect me to call and schedule my visits to each of you! Make sure you have a guest bedroom ready. I know you're looking forward to visits from crazy Aunt Dorothy!

5. I have developed quite a fondness for Xterra triathlons. I only did one this past summer, a few more the summer before, but look forward to doing more (see # 4). In the spring of 2009, I plan to go do the Xterra races in New Zealand and Australia (just a week apart), anyone who'd like to come is certainly welcome.

6. I love to decorate cakes. Now, I didn't want to get a degree in cake decorating, as did Debbie, but I do think it's fun!

I tag-- Emily, Mike, Becky, Allison Young, Lindsey Doxey, and Julia.