Happy New Year!

As a child I was fortunate enough to have grandparents, great-grandparents, and even great-great-grandparents on both my Mom's and Dad's sides of the family. Grandma Pete still has a newspaper article from the local newspaper showcasing me and Jared as "Lucky Kids have Bakers Dozen Grandparents" and a photo of our five generations. Every New Years Day I can remember my dad and Grandpa Jay driving us out to Woodland to visit Grandma Ina's father, Big Daddy (Luther), at his assisted living home. The entire home would have a potluck and Big Daddy was in charge of the black-eyed peas. Since then we've made it a tradition to have them in his memory each year.

Last year I tried an Emeril recipe for "Hoppin' John" but the Martha Stewart version remains my favorite. Tage isn't a fan of black-eyed peas so this year I made this Black-Eyed Peas and Spring Greens recipe from Mama Manifesto. More greens than black-eyed peas, it was substantial but light. I added feta and spinach sausage for my meat-loving man, who I can't say enjoyed the meal, but was a dear and ate it anyway. I, however, will enjoy the leftovers for lunch today.

Here's to a new year, I can't believe another one is already upon us. Each year has brought it's own challenges, surprises and delights and I can already say with confidence that 2009 will be no exception. Here is a brief look back on 2008 and then we're looking forward to 2009!

Our first home in Spokane, Washington

Spring Training in Phoenix, Arizona

The Great Wall in Beijing, China

Lindsey and Melanie come to visit

Cylie graduates!

Heather's bachelorette party

Heather and Kevin's wedding

Roseanne's bachelorette party

Roseanne and Larry's wedding

Tage's mom Deanne, Jack, and Aunt Bonnie come visit

Our first puppy, Astro

Expecting big things (or just one small one) in 2009...