The Last 12 Days

The 12 days leading up to Christmas... Wow. They've gone so fast, but it's been wonderful getting ready for our first Christmas in our own home.

I have to say it feels like it's our very first Christmas all over again. Only way better. The first Christmas after we got married, Chris got mono- and I spent several weeks praying, care-taking, wondering what he had, and begging God not to let him die. We didn't know what he had for awhile, and I was really scared. It wasn't an especially merry time, but we did the best we could, and God was so good. Chris got better, is absolutely fine, and I am so thankful to our merciful Lord.

Because I'm quite behind on blogging, I'd like to say happy belated birthday to Eric and Grandma Rosie. Sorry I don't have any current pics. We're going to have to work on that (hint, hint). But Happy Belated, anyway! Love you guys!

Also, Congrats Eric, on your new home! We're so excited for you. Welcome to the neighborhood...

We have had several celebrations already, but my favorite was our "progressive" day where we went to each family's house to eat and play a game or some other 'Christmassy' thing. Our house was first where we hosted brunch, and played what-if. It was so much fun, and a good chance to try some new recipes.





Last week we had a bit of excitement- the house down the street blew up. Literally. They think if was because of a faulty furance. Fortunately no one was hurt. It was a miracle really. (The pile is where the house was. It also damaged houses on both sides)


Tonight, we're staying home and watching The Nativity Story, eating Italian, maybe doing some baking, and just enjoying being together.


Merry Christmas, Everyone!

Coffee Break: Wednesday, December 12th 2007

Stopped for a cup of coffee, and came across this video. I thought it was really well done and it made me cry. Hope you enjoy it.

All About My Dog- Marimo
http://youtube.com/watch?v=DGQVX8iGbgk

Winter Wonderland (Continued)

Winter Wonderland

We're currently living in a winter wonderland. It's so beautiful everywhere, I just can't help staring out the windows a little too much. Doesn't help the productivity level, but it's absolutely wonderful just the same. It seems like all the trees have been covered in diamonds or fine crystal... Isn't it amazing that God makes the world so beautiful just before Christmas? Gotta love that...

Following, are a few pics from our little corner of the world:

Congrats...

to my friend Sarah! She's an awesome photographer who just started her own business. She's also one of my best friends in the entire world. She just won a photo contest, which you can check out on her blog:
photoeyelove.blogspot.com

Congratulations, my friend! I'm so proud of you. Happy Shopping!

Christmas Preparations

Just wanted to share a few pics of the progress. I've been home the last two days, which has been so nice. I love being home! Plus, there's so much that has to be done before this weekend. We're helping with a party on Saturday, then have Christmas and family pictures with my family on Sunday after church.

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Last year, a friend told me that every Christmas Eve they make a big lasagna with garlic bread, salad- the works, to enjoy after the Christmas Eve service at church. I'm thinking that would be so much fun! Nothin' says lovin' like Italian food...

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Does anyone have special Christmas traditions they'd like to share? I love hearing what other people do...

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This snowman was a gift from my friend and former employer who passed away this year. She made a huge impact on my life, and is greatly missed. It's on my desk to remind me of her.









Our tree this year is very similar to the one we had two years ago (Last year's was 12" tall because of the remodel). I've been entertaining the idea of having a black, white, silver, and pink one next year. Probably not as the main one, but you never know...



One of the gifts I'm making...

The First Real Snow of the Season

So, it's been a bit since I've posted- I've been busy trying to catch up with work, presents, and decorating. Promise there will be future pics of the progress. In the meantime, I couldn't resist taking a few shots of our first 'real' snow of the season (enough to have to shovel). It makes me happy, and you can just feel the Christmas spirit in the air. These were taken when it was just starting, so hopefully I can get more later.

The first one is of ZsaZsa looking out the window above my computer.