The honest confessions of a 3 year old

This conversation was had as Grace cried sadly for no explainable reason...

Joost (in an attempt to console Grace): "She's cute and a good sister."

Grace: "No! I'm not a good sister. I'm grumpy right now."

Brianne Lynn Lyzinski

On December 10th, the newest addition to the van Bastelaar family was made! Jeff's sister, Carolyn, gave birth to Brianne Lynn. The above picture was taken by Beth (Jeff's other sister) in the hospital.



On Saturday, we were delighted to see her ourselves in her home. The picture above is Brianne with her oldest brother, Joshua. She's a beauty and we're so glad to have another niece. (This brings the count up to 11 cousins in Jeff's family--including Joost and Grace--5 girls and 6 boys. Our tiny girl, due in January, should even things out nicely.)

The Year of the Ladybug

I know, according to the Chinese calender, that it's the Year of the Rat. But, I think that Gracie might actually be celebrating the Year of the Ladybug.