Christmas Programs

The kids each performed in the annual all choir sing at FBC. They each did a great job. It's amazing to see each of them grow. The church decided to do a different pageant this Christmas. Bethany was one of the children in the final act, her size earned her the special role of running to Jesus. I would love to say she is shy but the kid can perform. Jake was also given a role as a paige. He was supposed to escort one of the three kings to see baby Jesus. Somewhere along the way his pole broke but he didn't even flinch and completed the entire performance without most people noticing.

Main Street Bethlehem

I can't begin to tell you how fabulous this experience was for all of us. First let me say I strongly recommend that you arrive as close to 6pm (when the city gates open) as possible - it would be less crowded. Second if you can avoid a stroller do so. It isn't that much space to cover and would be easier to carry a child or use a pack carrier. Rachel and Zane missed out on a few things because the stroller couldn't get through or people would separate us from them.

Once you enter "the city" the characters will only interact with you as if they are truly in Bethlehem many years ago. The kids can ask questions and touch stuff. Nothing is really sold within the city walls though the salesmen appear very persuasive. The market place is loud as they shout over each other trying to get you to purchase their items.

This will be a new family tradition for us!

Thanksgiving 2008

I am so thankful! Even looking through these pictures (3 months after the fact) stirs so many thoughts of blessing. How can God love me so much to meet all of our needs and many of our dreams too. This Thanksgiving was extra special because of my kitchen help. The boys have helped in the past but they grew weary after a while. Bethany was in it for the duration. She asked if she could help make the pumpkin pie the day before and from then on, she was in the kitchen any time that I was. Dinner was a little later than originally planned but extra sweet because my helper participated in every dish served!

This year we decided to try a brined turkey - it was delicious and moist but I wasn't prepared for the amount of salt used, not the best choice for my dad. One of the funniest things that happened on Thanksgiving was Bethany setting the table. She laid out the plates, napkins, silverware and cups. When she finished that task she asked where the nametags were. I pointed out that there were only 7 of us and we all knew where to sit. She wasn't having any of it - so I stopped cooking and grabbed some of my card making stuff and she made us all placecards. I don't know where she comes up with this stuff - but it is fun to watch!

Thank you, Lord. Thank you.

Disney on Ice

As a special treat I bought tickets for Bethany, Drew and I to go to Disney on Ice... The Incredibles, in Waco. We had great seats, only about 6 rows up from the ice. The big splurge of the day was $10 snow cones, but we got to keep the cups. Anyway, it was a lot of fun for us all.

UMHB Cheer Babe

The UMHB Cheerleaders held a Cheer Camp for little girls. The girls went to "camp" for an hour on Tuesday and Thursday. They learned several cheers and how to do the CRU Jumps and CRU Stunts. On Saturday for our Homecoming the Cheer Babes were allowed to join the "big girls" for the entire 2nd quarter of the UMHB / HPU Game. Bethany took to cheerleading like a duck to water. I am sorry for so many pictures, I couldn't decide what to cut out.

Halloween 2008

Cotillion 2008

We signed Jacob up for Cotillion again and started out with the Western Theme. He was a little nervous this year but not too bad. When it was all over he said he had a good time, but wouldn't tell mom which girl he asked to dance!