Monday, December 26, 2011

Merry Christmas and to a Great New Year.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Here is what has been going on since Thanksgiving. Here are the boys in front of the house, we were able to decorate this year, and that was a highlight.
We have been visiting the Syracuse Science Museum, which has been very fun, and here Daniel is in a heart :-). It is really fun watching them get all into the exhibits.
My cousin delivered her second little girl, Annabella. She is so peaceful, and looks a lot like her sister.
Here we are getting our tree and wreath. Notice the lack of snow?
Here are the kids Christmas morning. We went to a Candlelight service on Saturday and gave the kids PJ's. We don't do Santa Clause, but give the kids each three toys to represent what the wise men gave Jesus. I don't have anything against Santa, but that was on of my family traditions. Kevin filled up the stockings, one of his family traditions, and it was great videoing it all for future reference.
I hosted Christmas for the first time, and this was the first time we had it at our house. The Turkey came out perfect!
Rachel was at the hip helping out and trying to cook with me. I also enjoyed using my mom's cookies recipes and making all of the cookies I remember making with her.
So this season is still bittersweet. My Dad and sister left today for Iowa, for a year, and even though we will see them a few times this year, I felt like I was just getting used to all of us being together. I do know the change is good, and know God can use the time apart, as much as He can use the time we have together. 2011 was definitely a time of adjustment and change. I am looking forward to getting back into shape, running a few races this year, watching the kids learn and grow, going camping and enjoying even more of upstate NY. God willing, I am ready for 2012 and all that it will bring.