Merry Christmas from us

Ava has been asking every day for about two months if it's Christmas yet, and here it is!  Merry Christmas! 

My love letter

My first letter from Jack that was unprompted.  It's a keeper!  And of course, so is he. 

Christmas Program and Caroling

What a great day we had to really focus on the reason for Christmas this past Sunday.  Hearing the scriptural  Christmas story at the beginning of the service was thrilling, and then the music and the children really made it such a worshipful service.  Later that day, we went Christmas caroling, enjoyed lots of fellowship and as always, received a special blessing in return.  

Christmas in the City

I like traditions and this one started with my family when I was a little girl.  I remember driving to Dayton's then and pressing my face against the car window to see to the top of the IDS Center while we drove right by it.  When I moved back home and was able to work in that building, it was special.  And I made even more memories as an adult with Matt working, dating, getting married and now with our kids, the traditions are even more special.  They are at a great age and really loved it all. And now there are new things to do!  The holidazzle parade has changed to holidazzle village and market.  We enjoyed it even though there are mixed reviews.  The village part was free and that was pretty fun.  There was an outdoor play of "The Velveteen Rabbit" - so cute!  Jack went ice skating for the first time and fell a lot but loved it.  There were carolers and reindeer.  I took Ava into the market shopping area which they charged for (didn't really understand that part) and we didn't buy anything, but she wanted to ride the carousel.  But all in all, we had a great day, the weather was good, and I got my Christmasy tradition fix!

Last treats we are making!

Merry Christmas, Aaron

Jack felt strongly that we should get Aaron these Superman pajamas, and he looks so cute we can't stand it.  

Ava with a haircut and playing with bubbles

Sometimes when you feel busy and your four year old says, "Mommy, if somebody would blow bubbles, I could hit them", it's really a gift that makes you stop and appreciate the little things in life that make up life.  

Christmas treats

We enjoy making these treats as a family to give away at Christmas.  What we don't tell people right away is that they are an evil addicting drug that I get sick on every year because they're so delicious.  But they figure it out!  And look forward to it each year just like we do.