We’re back home after a wonderful Christmas with my family, but we’re still in full-on-holiday-mode because we’re hosting a rather large New Years Eve party tonight.

The house is full of balsam bows, flowers, candles, snacks, and drinks. Everything is scattered all over the table and floor and we’re running around pulling it all together. Can’t wait to have a house full of our best friends and welcome 2012 together.

2011 was an incredible year- our first full year here at the homestead. The friendships we formed, the things we learned, the challenges and blessings alike made this year remarkably memorable. Happy New Year, friends!

UPDATE 1/2/2012: The party was a riot. I’m not sure we’ve ever started a year off on a better note. Our home was full to the brim with good food, great people, bumpin’ music, laughter, dancing, and there was even a snowball fight.

The living-room before anyone showed up.

Mmmmm, appetizers.

Supplies.

The bar.

In lieu of a bartender, we had a “make {bad word} yourself” sign. And glow-sticks.

A closer look at our yummies.

Friends arriving and mingling.

Good conversations, new friendships forging.

Pretty ladies.

Things eventually degenerated into a rowdy dance-party…

The boys traded their suits and dress shirts for something more comfortable.

My brother, sleepily cleaning up the aftermath.

{Sorry for the cruddy cellphone pictures. Happy 2012!!}