Oh Hanukkah, WHOAH Hanukkah

Hanukkah was a big deal this year! Not only did Zach ask to light the candles each night (he is still asking a week later), and enjoy opening his presents, we attended 5 Hanukkah parties. First we went to Temple Bat Yahm and enjoyed lighting an outdoor menorah, singing songs with our friend Shayne and family, dancing and eating latkes. Zach also enjoyed doing somersaults down the aisle leading to the bima.






Then, we were off to Aunt Laurie's and Uncle Larrys for the best latkes and chocolate cake we have ever had. Zach had a great time especially with Uncle Larry!






Sunday, we went to watch the Eagles kick some butt at Eric and Leah's.




I was fortunate enough to volunteer in Zach's class at his JCC Chanukah party! These kids are so funny! The have been together since they were 5 months old and have become such good friends.





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Zach, Ari and London
Finally, we ended the festivities at Ari and Ben's (from preschool) House. Sepi and Michael made homemade pizza and ice cream. Marisa, Michael, Ryan and his new little brother Benjamin were also there. Although I don't have any pictures other than a goofy family pic to show how much fun the boys had that night, you will have to take my word for it - I have never seen them have so much fun. We ended the night with Zach and Ryan breaking in the bathroom and brushing their teeth with Ari and and Ben's stuff!



Happy Chanukah, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!!
Love, The Shaynes

Zach has some BIG news to share - Please listen

And just in case you didn't him hear him correctly, he also put in in writing!


Expected to Arrive June 28, 2010!
Yep, that means we're into the 2nd Trimester already! We're ready to go and very excited!

So Thankful

This Thanksgiving meant something different to me than in prior years. Let's face it, I have had a lot of time on my hands to reflect. But I realized this year, I am thankful for so many things.
1. I am thankful this year is over. As many of you know, it hasn't been the easiest year for our family and I am looking forward to the light at the end of the tunnel.
2. I am thankful my husband is the nicest guy in the entire world. He never once lost faith in me or all my unsuccessful interviews. He always thought something was wrong with them - never me. ha ha
3. I am thankful I was laid off! Sure, I was mortified and sad to leave my friends at Green Street but I recently spent the last 7 months with my baby - who is really a big boy now! He tested me, pulled my hair and fought naps but we got to have breakfast together every day, and watch movies on the couch and spend hours at the park. I will remember the last seven months as some of the best I ever had.
4. I am thankful for my amazing parents and brother who give Zach so much love he doesn't know what to do with it. It is amazing to see how much he loves you back.
5. I am thankful for my networks and HR colleagues. They have been amazing, supportive, fun, and wonderful to be around. I have met so many great people and attended a plethora of events - I never had time to do that.
6. I am thankful for my mother-in-law who has always remained optimistic of Josh, Zach and me.
7. I am thankful we (meaning Josh and I) have finally learned the value of money. We have saved and skimped and paid off debt and realized we were spending way outside of our means - never again!
8. Finally, (here is the kicker by the way) I am thankful that I just accepted a new job as a Human Resources Executive Team Leader at Target! It is the best opportunity that has come my way and makes all the hard work worth it. My good friend Michelle referred me and after a month a half, 4 interviews and several pros and cons lists, I accepted this afternoon.

We know things are going to get crazy again but we think we work better together under crazy. It would be really nice to stay home full time but it is just not in the cards at the moment. Thank you all for your love and support this year. We hope you all had an amazing Thanksgiving. We celebrated with family at cousin Lauren and Phil's beautiful new home in San Diego. We also found out they are expecting their first baby in June. Needless to say, everyone had a great time and is thrilled for them.