Christmas Day

Christmas morning we woke up to stockings and a yummy breakfast.  BJ took the 4 oldest to the Silvercreek Assisted Living to host a little service, and then we were off to Grandma and Papa's.  We had a nice day there.  I didn't get many pictures, but I love this one of the middles waiting so patiently to open gifts.  :)

 Josiah got ahold of BJ's drink.  This is a habit we hope he never picks up!

Christmas Eve

Every year after the Christmas eve service we head home for taco soup and opening presents. Lots of hugs tonight. :)

People often comment that Christmas must be so exciting at our home, and it is.  Lots of excitement, energy, and wrapping paper.

Joshua Courage

Josiah Christian

You can't even see it, but one of my gifts from BJ was a barber's chair he bought off Craigslist.  :)  I have already used it once, and it sure beats a wooden stool, plus it spins really fast....a bonus if you ask the boys. :)

Such a fun, memory filled Christmas.  I am very thankful for our special blessings from the Lord. And so thankful for the gift of His son.

Christmas Eve Service

This year our boys had a part in the Christmas Eve service.

Judson was a sheep.....unwillingly.  Being a sheep is not really his thing, but getting a Hershey bar for participating sure is. :)

Christmas Sunday

Justin and his cousin, Rileigh.

My handsome Johnny.

The whole crew. 

Hoodview's Live Nativity

This year we decided to put on a live nativity at our church.  Our church in Centralia had held a live nativity for many years but felt the time had come to end that tradition. I have fond memories of being a part of that nativity, so I was excited that they were giving the scenes to our church.  :) With this being our first year we started off small with one scene and few participants.  Poor Johnny didn't feel good the first night.  My big boys and the Hans family were troopers doing the whole 2 hour shift. (Like I mentioned, we were short on our volunteers.) The second night Johnny was back to his old self- and we were able to switch out people throughout the night. Overall, the weekend went well, and it generated a little vision and excitement within our congregation for the coming years.

Jesse's Birthday

Our Jesse turned 11 on December 18th.  We are so proud of him.

He requested a coffee cup just like daddy's but for hot cocoa.  :)

Bear hugs from the brothers. 

We love you, Jesse.

Christmas Traditions

We were able to fit in our Christmas traditions again this year.  Boy, if we don't put them on the calendar in the beginning of the month, it's tough to make it happen.  These traditions mean a lot to our boys.....and that means they are a priority to me.  :)

Tradition #1~ Christmas lights!

Tradition #2~ "It's a Wonderful Life" movie night

Tradition #3~ Caroling