ringing in the new year...

an ice sculpture... supposed to be the beginnings of a birthday cake

that was downtown. (250th birthday for the burgh)

Yesterday we rang in the new year in a few ways. First of all, Nathan decided that he wanted to start the new year off with a new hair style. He wanted something easier, something that wouldn't take much time in the morning when he was getting ready for work. So we buzzed it all off, and we both had a ton of fun doing it. Enjoy the pictures!

before we started

the first cut.

one side finished

we were having a little fun

he liked the mohawk

the finished product!

Nathan's new style, we bought a few caps for him to wear if his head gets cold at work. He wore this one all night long.

After finishing Nathan's hair we headed downtown with the Mertens for First Night. First night is a family oriented celebration in the city. There are apparently 50 other cities in the US that celebrate First Night on New Years. It turned out to be very cold windy night. We walked around for a bit, had caricatures done (didn't look anything like us), got some hot apple cider at the culinary academy, watched the strangest parade, then headed home to warm up, play some games, and watch the ball drop. The time flew by and before we knew it, it was 12. We toasted to the new year, and shortly after said goodnight and headed to bed.

All in all, we had a good time but definitely can't believe how quickly this past year went. As we looked back at 2007, we are so thankful for the new friends and church we have found here in Pittsburgh. 2007 wasn't an easy year, but we're thankful to God for all the lessons we learned. Hopefully 2008 will be a bit easier and will bring plenty of blessing from our heavenly Father.

downtown at First Night with the Mertens

Happy New Year!
we hope it was good for you too