We Need a Little Christmas

I just realized how we have family traditions that just happen. We have, for the last couple of years now, had some students over while we put up our Christmas tree. It is a lot of fun to have a fresh perspective of the decorating, it gives some students a way to not miss home too much at this time of year, and the kids really like it!
Last night was no exception!

Kayla and Emma dig through one of the decoration boxes.

Addie placed 90% of the tree ornaments on the bottom right of the tree. :)

Josie was so excited to be able to hang the star this year!

We have red lights on our tree this year. It's different, but the girls like it!

Gingerbread House Party

Last week Josh and I were invited to a gingerbread house making party. We both have never made one before. I think we did pretty good. It was a timed competition, and then judged. We did not win, but it was fun anyhow! I'm not sure Josh thinks that putting candy on a cookie house is that great of a time, but I'm glad we got to spend some time together.

So Thank-FULL!

Thanksgiving was great! Ken and Chris and Winston and Cora got here with no problems, there was no stomach virus (trust me. It happens a lot!), and Chris brought THREE pies! :) It was so nice to be able to spend time with some family. Most had other plans, but we were able to talk to everyone either 0n Thanksgiving, or the day after.

Friday night we were able to go to Howell for their fantasy of lights parade. It is a fun parade that they have at night, and everything is lit up with Christmas lights. It is a fun way to ring in the Christmas season. :) We stopped and got pizza and bread sticks for dinner at Josie's favorite restaurant before the parade. We had great service, and amazing food!

It was a cold night, but a lot of fun. I think it may be time to get out the Christmas decorations. :) I hope everyone had a blessed Thanksgiving!

Ready to eat out feast! We are so blessed.

Ken and Chris at Tomato Brothers enjoying their bread sticks!

Visiting Jenna at the parade!

Thinking and Thanking

Today is Thanksgiving. During this day as my kids watch the Macy's parade, my hubby finishes moving furniture into the guestroom, and I spend the day in the kitchen, I am thinking of the things I am most Thankful for. So, while I wait for Mr. Turkey to finish cooking I decided I would share.

I am thankful for Jesus' saving work on the cross. God is SO gracious.

I am thankful for a wonderful Husband. Josh is so kind and gentle and loving to me, even when I do not deserve it.

I am thankful for the three most beautiful girls in the world. What joy they bring me each day.

I am thankful for our family here in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and Texas. Wishing we could celebrate this day of thanks with all of them, but knowing some years it doesn't work that way.

I am thankful for the dear friends I have, and missing them terribly. Most of which I feel like I could put in the "family" category.

I am thankful for God supplying all our needs. For never going hungry. For always having a place to sleep that was warm and dry.

I could go on forever, but I need to get back in the kitchen. Turkey is in the oven. Mashed potatoes, corn casserole, green bean casserole, jello salad, dinner rolls, sweet potato casserole are in the works. Chris is bringing her world famous pies and dressing. I think we will dine like kings tonight!

I'll let you know how it goes!

I hope I didn't forget anything!

Growing Up!

Look who's growing up (without even asking her Mommy if it was okay)!

I was just taking pictures the other day and I thought Addie looked cute so I snapped a couple of shots. When I uploaded them to the computer I couldn't believe what a big girl she looked like. She is my baby! Then I realized, she really isn't a baby anymore. She is no longer in a crib. She drinks from a regular cup, is potty trained, and doesn't eat in a high chair. It is official. I have three girls. No babies.

I think she looks like Emma sometimes, just with curly hair, but in this picture Addie kind of has her own look.

Pssst! Did you notice her ears?

Lookie What I Got!

It is a pressure canner! I have a great big stock pot to do hot water bath canning in, but now I have this baby. Now I can can corn and green beans! OH! I am so excited. The best part is, I only paid $7! What a steal!

So, anyone wanna come over and show me how to use this thing? :)

Up, Up, and Away!

Did you know we have a secret rocket ship at our house? It has disguised itself as a comfy reading chair, but with the right imaginations, and a couple of strong arms, it becomes a rocket!

1 percent terror, 99 percent thrill!

What a landing!