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JJ's trying to sneak up and tickle me, but I caught him!
Happy New Year!

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On our way from the Thimmesch house to the Hoover house to celebrate Christmas. JJ was out cold very quickly!

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We've been to the mall a couple of times and let JJ walk tentatively around the Santa area. I knew that he would be nervous about actually talking to him. So we have stood back and watched. A week or two ago, we went up to the top level and watched Santa from the railing, looking down. Santa didn't have any kids with him and spotted JJ. He made JJ's night by waving up at him. Today we told JJ this would be his last chance to talk to him before he went back to the North Pole. He was not nervous at all and gave Santa a big hug. He told him he wanted a Michelangelo and "all the other toys on his wish list."

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JJ has been so excited to GIVE this year!

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Winter break! What could more perfect than this??

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I was so happy to be able to walk across the stage to receive my Master's degree hood. JJ unfortunately woke up sick in the early morning, so Mom generously offered to stay home with him so Nick could attend with me. Dad came too and got a whole video of the moment, which I was thankful to be able to share with more of the family.







With my friend Allison before the ceremony. We helped each other get through our classes!



I could not have done this whole life change without the support and never ending patience of my family. Nick has been my rock. Both sets of parents have given us so much in terms of time, emotional support, and FOOD.
2014 has been a very hard year with the transitions between student teaching, a summer not working but finishing my Masters, and then finally starting my first teaching job. The work load has been incredible and very stressful. But I know that it will all pay off in the end.

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We went to Topped Doughnuts this morning for a treat. When we saw these cute Rudolphs we had to get two for his teachers! Great way to start a Friday!

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JJ is cranking out the noodles!

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Working on a Saturday night, but at least I have my feet up watching a football game and eating popcorn.

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Grandpa got JJ a new Ninja Turtle book and game. Here they are reading together.

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Enjoying shakes together at Hickory Park. It's always fun to have dessert with your dinner!

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Michelangelo!



With neighborhood friends

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JJ was a great helper getting the leaves cleaned up in the front yard.

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JJ's preschool class visited a pumpkin patch! Miss Amy was nice enough to email us this picture.