Our latest family picture

Oops, somebody got a new car.

Okay, it's mine. Yes, my car had too many problems to deal with and just wasn't dependable enough for the 3 children and me to drive around in. It was just a little too embarrassing when I had to call my boss to say I was going to be late because Ivy and I were walking to her house with my car dead a mile away. Yes, I was pretty frustrated with it when I found this shiny thing calling to me. It is quite luxurious, reminding me of my dad's old BMW, but definitely without that price tag. I actually got it for less than I what I paid for my old Honda. I feel pretty fancy in it. The best part is that my wonderful dad got his friend's son to buy my car in all it's glory. I didn't even have to smog it or anything, and I only feel good about it because I gave him a pretty good deal. Hurray, I won't be stranded again (hopefully!)

Ivy and Wendy

We all love it when Ivy and Wendy get together. Wendy is Ivy's cousin (Russ & Bonny's baby) and Ivy is very interested in Wendy and all her enthusiasm.

Wendy is usally quite smiley and always looks right at you with those big blue eyes. She also is a wiggly one and goes crazy when you give her any attention at all. She is so fun and entertaining to be around. She's definitely going to be a popular little social butterfly.

Ivy has gotten a lot better at sitting since this was taken (which was about 2 weeks ago).


Ivy and her grandpa. William loves her in that bunny hat.

Dillon's Beach

Dillon's Beach!

Back on October 9th, we took Ivy on her first trip to good old Dillon's. Our ward goes every year, so thanks to my mom for letting us borrow her car, we were able to go.

This is what Ivy did pretty much the entire time.

William did put her feet in the freezing water, and of course she wasn't too thrilled.


We finally pried Ivy's hand off her hat and out of her mouth for a quick picture with the beautiful ocean in the background. We're obsessed with that fluffy face.

William said if I looked a little more appropriate and if Ivy's face was showing, this could have been our Christmas picture. I guess he looks good, but usually does, and why couldn't I wear my Nacho Libre shirt in our Christmas picture?

So, my lovely mother likes to make me feel bad because I don't really ever see my little bro perform in the Bella Vista Marching Band. Since this is his last year, I thought it was time to see him in action and see how good the band really is (since they practice morning, noon, and night, literally). They were good, and of course, Nick was the best. He plays the drums and is actually the drum leader. Ivy was loving it, unless my grandma (Oma) held her, sorry Oma.

So, William, the photographer, told us to do silly faces. Obviously the Albanos aren't too great at this, but Ivy's definitely got her dad's talent.

Nick actually put his hand on my shoulder! We have come a long way. Even though I sometimes make fun of him, Nick is quite a cool kid and I'm proud of him and all his accomplishments. He especially has really managed to stay out of trouble, since most don't.