We are ready to be done with 2022. No offense, year, but it was a tough one. Lots of humbling and learning. Lots of changing too. That is definitely WORTH IT, but, gosh, it is hard. So, I’m ready to ring in the new 2023!
HOPE.. FAITH….and JOY! And Simplicity. That is what I want this year.
Tatum got ready too. Her office is up and ready to run.
I like her reminder of JOY. Jesus. Others. You. May we put HIM first. Also, her white board. Reading comes before play. Good reminder.
Tatum and I made some wands for the evening; this would be waved over our evening to bring in the joy of the LAUNCH!
Mom came over too; we played Rummy Tile (just like when I was a kid), and we had a nice dinner.
Woody just rested, and Coopy? He chilled. I like the thought of both of these!
Loving on the Foster Care world is part of our family’s heart. We want to give back to children who don’t have the luxury of caring parents; they are stuck in the system.
Our small group has “adopted” Gigi’s home to love on the girls there, and this time, we wanted to give them art supplies. Our family wanted to do this as well, so Tatum and I headed out there on Day 5 of our 7 days.
They were so grateful. We can’t wait to do more..for even more children.
We started out the morning with a prayer and a nice walk. Thank you Jesus! You are here!
All was quiet in the foyer and living room. Very nice for the morning.
And then, it all began…. did a little elf eat Santa’s cookies? HMMMMM….
Around the country it is below freezing, but here? It’s going to be in the 70’s today. However, I still dressed as if it was freezing! heh..
We stopped at Circle K for our favorite coffee, and then headed home to get ready for Austin and Mama. I have a lovely breakfast planned as well as a little surprise for Tot.
My sweet potato crusted quiche (with sausage and leeks)
And reindeer pancakes! It’s a yummy tradition.
Before breakfast, Tatum gets to open a stocking gift.
I couldn’t wait to give this to her: An electronic bookmark that keeps track of your reading minutes.
Mama is here! The tree has exploded. When Austin arrives, it will be even bigger!
I think we are ready to eat now!
Yay! Austin is here, and YES, the tree has doubled in size.
So goooood to see him!
Now we are ready for presents. Also we finished our Advent Blocks today, and tonight we’ll read the final entry.
Tatum wanted to spoil Cooper and Woody. They are so excited to get presents!
And Woody even got more gifts from Austin..little edible treats; how kind of him to think of Woody.
Mama, we love you. We gave her some slippers and a new planner. More to come, Mama!
My HHH…he spoiled me! A basketball, a net (he will build!..this is so very exciting to me!!!), and some sleep buds for my beauty sleep. I’ll take al l I can get.
I made him a 3 part present:
I love you so much honey…so much.
Tot got slippers for Daddy too!
Honey, your feet are so happy!
Oh, and Austin! He spoiled all of us. For me? He got a pan and food processor. The way to my heart is through cooking tools!
And Tatum? You spoiled me too! I think she secretly wanted this set. (we will share it my love)
Taties, you love Lego Friends and warm blankies.
Austin, your Daddy got you so many gifts, and I hope to have added to the joy. A key finder! (well, it apparently finds many lost items with a simple remote you use to find the marked item)
Later on, we just relaxed and did puzzles. Daddy made delightful ham for dinner. YUUUUMMM.
It was by far the best Christmas because we were all together. Austin felt at home, and Mama was so happy. That makes me shine!
Even Coopy was satisfied and content.
I love you, Hays, Mama and Austin! NOEL! New Beginnings.
The day would be so relaxing. We had gone to church the evening before, so it was nice to just have the day to wrap presents, do puzzles, and watch some Superbook!
Oh, and make Woody a new playroom; he LOVES it! Especially the swing and his mirror. (who is that in the mirror, Woody?)
Woody also enjoys puzzles.
Later on, Mama came over for turkey dinner. Boy is it fun to make food for my family.
Dinner is set, and we spent the time reading the devotion and remembering Christmas’ past.
What a calm, lovely dinner. What did you think, Woody?
He is happy with all of us around. What joy he brings to our family with the Coopyhead of course.
Finally, we had to read Twas the Night Before Christmas before bed. Tatum’s little Golden Book is a mini version of my own from when I was a kiddo. (we read in tandem)
She tried to stay awake for Santa to eat his cookies, but alas…. she fell asleep with the little guy. *melt*
