The Christmas Season

We were involved in a lot of activities over the past couple of weeks. It started off with Beka's Christmas program at preschool on the 15th. Beka was dressed in her Christmas dress and then she was dressed as an angel. All the kids did a wonderful job singing. Afterwards everyone enjoyed some cookies.

On the 20th, Jared and I attended Beka's Christmas party at school. We made stocking ornaments and played put Baby Jesus in the manager (kinda like pin the tail on the donkey). Jared really enjoyed being part of the class. Oh there was also a storyteller who told the story of the mice in the the tale The Night Before Christmas. The mice wanted a Christmas tree but it had to be very small because mice live in tiny little holes.

We spent Christmas Eve with Andrew's family. The kids received some very nice gifts as did Andrew and I. Christmas Eve dinner was served at his grandpa's house. All the cousin played well together and the food was delicious. Andrew and I really appreciated the time we got to spend with the extended family. We attended the Children's Church program with the family also.

Christmas Day was spent with my parents and brother. Andrew made omelets and I am taking everyone else's word for it that they were good. (Eggs = yuck)

My family is very blessed. We have so much extended family that give us so much. I can't even begin to list here all we received in gifts and in blessings. It was so nice to be with everyone as we celebrated Jesus' birth.

And one picture just because my kids are cute.

Advent Calendar

The Shoups, honorary grandparents, gave this advent calendar to Beka and Jared. I really think it is wonderful. It focuses more on the birth of Christ than on the presents. Beka and Jared get excited every morning when it is time to take the next character out of the calendar. I have emphasized that on the last day baby Jesus will be born and put in the manger. So, they know it counts down to Christmas and present, but also to the birth of Jesus.

Snowy December Afternoon Activities

The snow started falling today around 11:30pm right as I was picking up Beka from preschool.  It hasn't stopped falling yet.  I would bet we have about 4 inches out there now.  So, the kids and I got out the blocks today.  We built bridges, roads, and towers.  We had a lot of fun.

Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday, Daddy


We love you!

My Little Rocker

I know we have posted alot today.  But I just got this picture off the camera and I just can't resist.

Snow Day

Over night we received about 2 inches of snow. Beka and Jared were thrilled. When Beka woke up this morning, she had to show everyone the snow. So after nap, I took them outside to play in the snow. First, we had to get out the boots, snow pants, coats, hats, and gloves.

Then we went outside. OH the squirt bottles they are holding are full of cornstarch, water, and food coloring. Coloring the snow with the squirt bottles is fun.
Beka decided to make snow angels while Jared wanted to hit Mommy with snowballs.


The best part of going outside in the snow is the hot chocolate when you come inside.