Goodbye 2008

We started off our Christmas vacation by going to California (Coronado Island) and Vegas. There we:

*Walked along the beach
*Played games
*Watched the BYU vs Arizona game
*Visited with the Sessions
*Chris golfed
*Ate at Claim Jumper
*Hit a few golf balls in the Ocean
*Late night star gazing
*Drive to Vegas
*Outlet Malls
*Bellagio Water Show
*Ate at Macaroni Grill
*Played Tennis
*GAMBLED
*All you can eat buffet
*Circ de sole show




We had a very nice and relaxing time with the Martin family. We had many laughs as well as tears. We are grateful we were able to spend a little bit of the holiday with them.

After we went to California we flew to Idaho on Christmas Eve. We got there just in time for dinner, and it was great to have my entire family there with us. Our Christmas Eve and Christmas was difficult, but it was nice to be with my family. It was hard to be sitting there thinking and knowing that Preslie would have been there with us. That this would have been her first Christmas.

(Our New PJS)


All my sister Mikelle wanted for Christmas was a kitty, and because of the difficult year my family has had my parents got her one. She was near tears as all of the presents had been opened and she didn't have a kitty. Soon my mom came downstairs with little Lucifee, and we all broke into tears. I have never seen Mikelle more excited over a gift before. Lucifee was just the sweetest kitty, and I really enjoyed being able to hold and pet her.

(My Mom, Mikelle and Lucifee)



Chris and I didn't get much sleep in Idaho, as we would stay up partying every night. We went to the church and played volleyball almost everynight, watched movies, went to see HSM3 TWICE!, played a lot of games, shopped, played WII,caught up with old friends, took Abby to get a few cones,and just had a very relaxing time.
(After Church)

(Chris and Merrick playing the WII)

(Abby and I)


My last week in Idaho was really rough, and I am glad I was able to have the love and support of my parents as well as Christopher. We took family pictures, and Chris and I noticed that we just don't look happy in any of them. We are hoping that a few turned out. The night before we came back to MI we were able to go the temple, and feel some peace. I am really anxious to go back real soon. I am so grateful for my family and parents, and for the love they showed to us while we were there. It was so hard for me to come back to Michigan, but I know it's what I needed to do.



Our little Martin family is having numerous changes this next semester. I am going to be taking 3 classes at LCC, and 2 Institute classes. We were also able to get a membership to the YMCA, so we can both get back into shape. I think that going to school will be a good transitional change for me, and to keep me pretty occupied this next year.

We are calling 2009 a year of change, and we hope that this year will bring a lot of joy and happiness to us. :)