Gifts

Earlier this year Carl took a huge cut in pay.  We are blessed, he still has a job.  We are blessed to have all that we need (which is separate from all that we want). There has been a fair amount of scaling back, and, this season, that includes Christmas giving. 

The materialistic messages are hard to shut out.  I had to turn off the tv, keep the music commercial free, and stay away from the stores unless we were out of toothpaste or something.  I've mostly been at home, smiling at my 10 year old faux Christmas tree who's middle string of lights have quit working. Togetherness, sacrificial love, health, the warmth of a place to call home- those are things that matter.

I stumbled upon this little story at the library a few days ago.  I intended it to be for the kids, but as I read it, I realized it was more for me.  I read it again tonight, this time to Carl.

After reading it, we promised (really promised) not to buy for each other this year and sat closer in the chair that we shared.  You know what?  I have a feeling that this might just be one of the best Christmases yet.  You can read it here.

Happy and Thankful

(2nd grade snack, Fruit Gobbler)

It was -2 degrees outside when I woke up this morning.  We have about 6 inches of snow on the ground.  It could be a VERY long winter.  But that's okay, because I've got lots to keep me warm- inside and out.  So, so thankful for a healthy family, a warm bed, plenty of food (maybe I need less ?), and most of all a Savior that loves me with the most overwhelming and lavish love I've ever known.

Blessing to you all.  Eat lots of pie and stay warm! Happy Thanksgiving.

dress-up

I wanted to drop in a few pictures of our Halloween dress-ups.  I don't really love this holiday.  I'm not into creepy stuff.  We generally have a "no scary" costume rule. I also don't like spending a bunch of money on outfits that we might wear 3 hours. That said, I am always looking for something that we can put together with minimal effort.

Here we go:

Hannah was a clown. Blurry picture, not sure why.

Ian was a Monsieur. Kinda weird nursing someone with a mustache.

Laurel was a gumball machine.

Emma was an artist.

Okay, I'm missing you.  I hope to be back very soon with better pictures, something interesting to say, and a comfy spot on the couch (laptop in hand). Goodbye.