Remember December?

Just a quick note to let you all know that I haven't forgotten all about the month of December. It was a BUSY time for us but don't worry I have lots to share I just have to get it all posted. One of my goals for the new year is to try and post at least 2-3 times a week. Wow! I guess now that I posted it on the blog it is a done deal. Anyway, I am going to try my best to keep you updated on all that we do. Sit back and enjoy the ride!

Goodbye 2008, hello 2009

How I love the Christmas season, all the joy and love but most especially the kindness and giving. It amazes me just how much people change during the course of 30 days. I am amazed that my children have learned to give and take joy in serving others. As we approach the end of 2008 and look forward t0 2009 I am so grateful for all the amazing things that we have seen and accomplished this year. I look forward to the New Year all the blessings and changes that it brings. Happy 2009 to all!

Moving day for the Aunties

Today was moving day! Wait, not for us for the Aunties. That is right, Rebecca and Marissa finally got a place of their own. We are so excited for them, but moving their stuff was an adventure. They have a nice 3 bd 2 bath split level that was built in 1916. It has tons of storage space and a great fenced back yard with plenty of play space for the daycare kids. The one BIG disadvantage is the 20 steps up to the house. WOW! That is a lot of steps when you are packing stuff up and down. Oh! And that doesn't include the climb up the stairs to Marissa's room. However, her room has the most amazing view of the Bay and the ocean. So cool! We hope that they have lots of new memories to share and let us visit often.

Advent Calendar

Advent calendars have always been a part of our family Christmas celebration. An Advent calendar is defined as a special calendar which is used to count or celebrate the days of Advent in anticipation of Christmas. Some calendars are strictly religious, whereas others are secular in content. Today, most advent calendars are made for children. Many take the form of a large rectangular card with many "windows", one of which is opened every day during Advent. In less elaborate calendars, each window opens to reveal an image, a poem, or part of a story such as the Nativity story itself. More elaborate Advent calendars have a small gift concealed in each window, such as a toy or a chocolate item.

As part of my master plan to keep my kids focused on the real reason for the season we are starting off the month with an advent calendar. I am hoping that the wonderful verses and simple activities will help them remember to serve others and hopefully not think of themselves as much during this wonderful Christmas season. I will let you know how it goes.