The New Year

We went to a fun New Year's Eve party where they celebrated the New Year earlier in the evening for the kids, complete with a balloon drop. After putting the kids to bed at home, Ben and I counted down the actual New Year without too much fanfare. At some point in the weekend, we were able to go out and see Avatar, which we enjoyed.

We started off New Year's Day with our traditional breakfast of chocolate croissants and hot chocolate. It was actually a relatively warm day (not below freezing) so we decided to go hiking. When my family lived in Arizona, we would always go on a hike on New Year's Day. I thought it was a fun tradition (although the weather was more cooperative there) and was glad we could do it this year. We went to Turkey Run Park where they have some nice hiking trails right along the Potomac River. Amelia LOVED the hike and was so proud of herself for doing it on her own. We found a great little sandwich shop in Arlington (Earl's) and enjoyed lunch after the hike.










The trail crossed right over this little river at two separate points.





We are trying to adjust to regular life again. Ben was home for 2 full weeks during Christmas and it was fantastic. Except the part where I threw up every 20 minutes all night long and then passed the bug on to Elsa. But at least Ben was home to take care of us. Now Amelia has come down with something and it's bitterly cold outside. Delightful January.