Simplifying started early

You have to see these pictures from Christmas morning. Really, I just wasn't in the "Christmas spirit" this year. However, on Christmas morning, it hit me. This is why:



Santa came! He really, really came! He left boot prints on the hearth and even hand prints on the fireplace. Whoa! This was our favorite Christmas ever. We simplified by requesting that Santa only bring a few gifts, and it worked out really well. As you see, the boys have a new kitchen set (which they LOVE) and they each have a couple of new favorites.

Simplify is the goal for 2009. I am going to try to simplify my schedule, simplify our activities, and simplify my mind. I hope you have a blessed new year filled with great memories and smiles as big as those you see above.

Christmas prayer

Dear Jesus,

Thank you for presents, Polar Express, my family, listening, for not being sassy.

I love you.

Come, Lord Jesus, come!

I love you.

We decorated a Christmas tree for you.

Thank you for being happy.

Be proud.

Amen

(from Nickolas)

Brotherly love

The fellas helped us put up the Christmas tree last night. The family room and kitchen are almost done, so we were excited to get the tree up and things put back together.

Nick said, "it's finally Cwitmis time!" 

Nathan said, "kickick tee!" 

Jim said, "I'm glad we put the tree up. It looks pretty good here."

I said, "the tree is hot. Don't touch the tree, boys. Please don't put that in your mouth, Nathan. Nick, stop pushing your brother. Get the blanket off the tree. No. Don't sit on the tree. Hey! Get out from behind the tree." 

Maybe we should have brought out the four foot fiber optic tree this year.