Welcome to 2008's holiday scrapbook page.  This year, we get to add some new names to this mailing.  We tried to come up with a way to express how wonderful it has been to add so many warm and incredible people to our lives this year, some brand new, and some dredged up from previous lives, but honestly, there just aren't adequate ways to thank you all for your love and friendship.  New and old family and friends; we are always so grateful for how blessed we have been over the years to be surrounded by such great people.  So, this year's movie quote, about all of you, "There is no cost for awesomeness..." - Po, the Dragon Warrior (Kung Fu Panda).  

If this is your first visit to our version of a newsletter, we're excited that  you're here (especially since you may see pictures of yourself).   This really is a mini-scrap book so it may load slowly because of all the graphics.  Please be patient, it's usually worth it.  :)

This year, we're going to try an FAQ version of the updates - Here's hoping it works:  

 
(Can you really say that about people who tower over you when they stand next to you?)

Tak is continuing his work on his AA degree through Delta College locally and working part-time.  With girlfriend, Rikki, at school in Oregon, it's good that he has things to keep him busy.  He joined the Winter Bowling League (not on the same team as dad) and is having lots of fun there this year.  Spare time (when it exists) includes the occasional Naruto tourney and some on-line gaming. 

Guitar Hero Jam Session

Prom 2008

The Gamer at Work

Josh has had a busy 2008 - graduation in the spring, working in the summer and he has just finished with his first term at UCLA.  He still enjoys the pick-up basketball games and weight lifting (UCLA has an absolutely gorgeous facility) at school. 

BBall as a Senior

Clean up nice, don't they? (Pre-Prom)

The Grad Crew - some of these guys have been in school together since 2nd grade.

Nat, Clayton, Ryan and the other adoptees continue to be a big part of our lives along with new baby, Princess Sophie (AKA Demon Baby and Psycho Sophie).  Stephen and Jimmy are both doing well in the Marines and come visit when they're home. 

Josh's 18th, my birthday, Graduation, Off-to-School, Cindy and Kathy's celebration, and Christmas in the new digs to name just a few; with lots of smaller versions in between, 2008 seemed to be a year of celebrations for us - what a great way to spend a year!!!  

(oh, you mean the house?)

By the way: 4231 Flint Lane, Tracy, CA 95377   :)

We should probably mention Facebook networking here since we have been able to connect with so many lost friends this year...and yes, it is "trouble" when it comes to getting anything else done!   :)

Although we did manage a couple of "normal" adventures, like a quick day trip to Yosemite, a weekend in San Diego (and the zoo/park of course), and a live Jeff Dunham show, the real "biggie" this year has been the purchase, prep and move into our beautiful new home (more rooms for visitors and wayward travelers!).  It was definitely an adventure to get moved in (because of some vandalism issues, closing was a two month process), but we made it in time to have a wonderful Christmas surrounded by family (including some adoptees).   Quick stats: 6 rooms, about twice the space of the old place, a half acre blank slate of a back yard - Ferne'll be playing for years!!!

	Im and kids, Dave and Mark

As the new year ushers in a time of hefty change and financial fear and struggle, our family will focus on the "riches" that having you in our lives bring.  Thank you all, and we hope to see each of you in the upcoming year.

                                                                                                               With Hope and  Love,

                                                                                                                Dave, Ferne and the boys