Christmas was really wonderful for us this year, a season to look back and be thankful for our year of blessings. Last year, we were able to celebrate with a lot of family at home and just 2 years ago Will had been out of work. Hard to believe it was 2 years ago! So, we continue to learn to be content in every situation- in years without and in years of plenty. I admit it was really nice this year to be able to shop for Christmas dinner and for groceries in general and really be able to plan some nice meals. Its just so easy to take the little things for granted and our year or 2 of "lean times" has given me a much greater appreciation for all those little pleasantries that aren't necessary, but nice to have when you can.
Some of the highlights: My Dad visited and we all attended the Christmas Eve service together at our church. I made a yummy lobster soup for dinner ($5.99/lb!) and apple pie.Will's Dad and Joanie came and shared Christmas morning with us and got to see the kids open gifts. Everyone was healthy, and Will was home, with us, through the whole thing. This is still a new thing for me, since Will worked for many Christmases by attending multiple services over 2 days when he was in ministry. I had gotten used to spending Christmas Eve alone (well, after putting kids to bed) but I so enjoyed having my husband home on Christmas Eve! All day! and the next.... and the next.... (you get my drift).
So this year, the kids enjoyed their gifts from "Santa" as well as others. Everyone kept a thankful heart (no "gimmies") and it was really a wonderful past few days.
Cori's Princess dress.
the boys open their "Skylanders Adventure" Wii game. and read their letter from Santa. Zach had left him an apple and banana instead of the traditional milk and cookies, along with a "Healthy Kids Guide" on how to lose weight. It was pretty funny, and Santa got a kick out of it.
Ho Ho Ho - YOM plays Santa
Go Hokies! Sugar Bowl in one week! Now Dad has something to cuddle- (or punch) - depending on how the game turns out next week.
Some of Cori's favorite books....
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