The Christmas Season

We survived. Although it was busy, chaotic and at times a little insane, we made it through. Here are some of the highlights.

A few days before Christmas, we decided to take in the lights. We made it all the way to Deerfield and sat in traffic to see what was supposed to be an amazing light display. Unfortunately, one street in, we hear Max say, “I have to poo-poo.” That was the end of the light show.

On Christmas Eve, we got the kids all dressed up and took them to the Christmas Eve service. They were very excited, but 10 minutes into the program, they both fell asleep. Normally, I wouldn’t mind, but I had hoped to get them to bed early so Santa could come.

Speaking of Santa, Luke was so excited, he couldn’t sleep in his bed. He literally slept in the doorway so he wouldn’t miss anything. Very cute.


Santa finally came. I don't know who had more fun. Luke and Max are at the perfect age and we loved watching them take it all in.



We had a great morning. My family came over early for breakfast and to watch them play.


Later we ate dinner at my Mom’s house and Max spilled water on his pants. Thank goodness it was warm, because even on Christmas Day, Max found a way to run around without clothes on.


To top it off, we finished our Christmas with a trip to the emergency room. On Friday, Luke and Max were playing swordfight and somehow, Max picked up a non-sanctioned and approved “sword.” Three hours later Merk and Luke are sitting in Acute Care. Thank goodness for Dermabond.

All in all, we had a great Christmas. We hope you did too.

Taking A Breath

For me, this is the best part of Christmas. I know, Christmas Day is still three days away, but for me, this is it.

It’s the quiet, the calm before the storm that I enjoy so much. Everything major is done. Presents have been bought, wrapped and are sitting under our tree. Cookies have been baked and baked and baked. The house is clean. Cards have been sent and received.

All the hard work is over and I can sit and reflect. It’s when I look at my kids with wonder at how God created them. When I look at my husband with gratitude for who he is and not what errand he can do to help me out. When I can savor my family, who I know will drive me crazy before Christmas Day actually arrives.

This is the day when I really appreciate the meaning of Christ’s birth and what that means to me. When I sing Christmas Carols with gusto and feel joy in my heart. After today, I have a hard time sifting through the chaos. Not that I don’t have moments throughout the Christmas season, but only when it’s really quiet am I able to listen and really worship.

So today I’m listening. Tomorrow I will be running again. Family will be here. Cooking will begin. Gifts will leave and more will arrive, begging for a place in my home. The kids will be tired and overwhelmed.

So, Merry Christmas to my dear friends and family. If you’re reading this you know how much you mean to me. My prayer for you is to experience quiet in the midst of the chaos and the joy of Christ as we celebrate his birth.

Hairy Ornament

The other night we were decorating the tree and I found my favorite ornament. It is orange and yellow with feathers that stick up everywhere.

I was pointing it out to Merk, saying someting like, "I really love this ornament." Out of nowhere, Max busts out with, "Hey, that looks like my hair."

Except for the orange, he was right on.


For reference, here's a typical picture of Max.

Birthday Boy

What a cutie pie. Can you believe he just turned 40? Yes, for the two people out there that haven't heard, Merk recently had a big birthday.


I thought Merk might have a hard time with this birthday, but he's handling it pretty well. He decided not to color the gray, but is holding fast to the decision to continue shopping in the Nordstrom's youth department.


I love these old pictures of him. He's absolutely adorable. He has so much personality, even as a kid. Luke's just like that now. I'll be very proud if he grows up to be like his Dad.


Merk and his younger brother, Boyd.


I have so few pictures of the two of us, but here's one we took recently. I have to say, he still looks pretty good. More importantly, he's a great Dad and an awesome husband. I'm a very lucky girl.


Happy Birthday Sweetie! You have my heart and all of my love. xoxoxo

Crazy Busy

We had a very busy weekend. Can you tell?