I know it's unusual for "natural" twins, but I actually know that this is the EXACT day one year ago that Roman and Katya were conceived.  Wow!  So many emotions in just 365 days...joy, frustration, amazement, grief, confidence, worry...and most of all unconditional LOVE.  They will be christened this weekend in San Francisco, at St. Michael's Ukrainian Orthodox Church, and both families will be in attendance.  Katya's godmother will be Christina Redko.  Her Godfather is my wonderful brother, Jim.  Roman's Godmother is Auntie Shari, and his Godfather is Peter's best friend Mark.  I am so proud of these babies - they have overcome a lot to be healthy, happy babies - without a trace of "preemieness!"   Roman continues to be the "serious" one and Katya talks...and talks...and talks (just like mommy)!  God help us all.  Back to work now, and really enjoying having that identity again, along with "mom."  I am so thankful to have a job that keeps me interested, year after year, and helps us to live comfortably, when so many people are out of work and hurting in this country.  I don't take it for granted, believe me!  I know of two companies that laid off people suddenly over the last two weeks - seems so heartless over the holidays, but they must be desperate.  The kids like to watch Baby Einstein, listen to classical music (especially Mozart and Christmas music), and play with things that "shake rattle and roll."  Katya's grasping mechanism is very developed, and Roman occassionally decides to impress us with his too (but he's just not that competitive).  Katya wants to be FIRST in everything!   So hilarious that we can see their little personalities developing already.  Will write again soon, friends - HAPPY HOLIDAYS! 

Hi, friends.  Can't believe I haven't written for over a month, but a lot of special days have passed. We went to our first Sharks game - and they won!  We had our First Halloween (and three month birthday) - see link in Photo Gallery for all of the great shots by our dear friend Muggs.  This family really knows how to ham it up for the camera!  We also had our FOUR month checkup this week - Roman is 13 pounds, 4 oz. and Katya just about 12 pounds.  Beautifully healthy and starting to really find their voices (and their hands - straight into the mouth).  LOL We spent our first Thanksgiving at Auntie Shari's house - so happy to have a second family here in CA.  Thank you to everyone for the generous invitations to spend that day with you too!  I have been having some anxiety and insomnia in the last two weeks, but getting that under control and looking forward to going back to work next week!  I need some mental stimulation.  Babies are basically sleeping through the night, and Daddy and I have a good schedule going now. Our Au Pair, Zuzana, is doing a fantastic job during the week, keeping them happy, fed and getting them outside almost every day in the fresh air. We are blessed to have such a caring woman in our home.  The babies love her!  Both Roman and Katya smile daily, and Roman enjoys showing us that famous tongue.  He's definitely our "physical"baby and Katya is more cerebral.  She espeically enjoys television.  Very interesting!  So different at times, yet so much alike.  What will they become?  We will all keep watching!  I will write again before Christmas, but I want to wish ALL of you a very Happy Holiday and thank you for your continued prayers for the safety, peace and happiness for our family and for our country and world.  Grandma and Grandpa Goyette (my parents) will finally meet the angels two weeks from today. We are all very excited about that, and will enjoy a fun and exciting December!  Life is good, if not very challenging at times!  XOXOX