Christmas 2009

Christmas was simple and sweet this year. The kids are at an age where they like more expensive and less packaged toys. Ethan's requests were for an iTouch and XBox. We are not the Rockerfellers but got him started towards a savings plan. Didn't want to waste a teachable moment. ;D

Emily is still in the simpler stage of the artistic and creative and cute & cuddly. Next year I imagine a request for a fancy sewing machine....

We have definitely turned a corner. Santa is no longer and consumerism is trying to bombard them. In some ways this stage is nicer and in other ways it is hard to say farewell to the simplicity of childhood of Santa, reindeer and elves. Thankfully, the wonderment of the season is alive and strong. It is the celebration of Jesus' birth after all. Gifts are given because He gave the ulimate gift of sacrificial love.

We love because He first loved us. That gift I will be amazed over all my life.

Emily's art projects.
She couldn't wait to get started!

The kids and I gave Dad a DVD of Family Fued.

We had a blast playing that game together!

Christmas hugs and rawhides for Buddy. :)

Flower received a Dog Snuggie.