For Today...

"Bless the Lord oh my soul, and forget not all His benefits: 

Who forgives all your iniquities,

Who heals all your diseases, 

Who redeems your life from destruction,

Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, 

Who satisfies your mouth with good things, 

so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.

The Lord executes righteousness And justice for all who are oppressed.

The Lord is merciful and gracious,

Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.

For as the heavens are high above the earth,

So great is His mercy toward those who fear Him.

For He knows our frame; 

He remembers that we are dust."

Psalms 103 (in part)

New Years Celebration '11

R & J had great fun making choices at the super center.  The cart depicts the final choices for the upcoming event.

The sunset was gorgeous at our country property

Enjoying the fire

Lights from the police car that came to check out our gathering.  Someone saw the fire and activity. Good to know the not so near neighbors were watching! The policeman stayed for a little while and joined the fun...after determining there was no alcohol or drugs or foul play involved in our party.

The adults played with the sparklers...

...while the boys set up the fireworks station

The girls sat by and watched the activity.

and we all had a good time watching the display and visiting with one another.

Christmas Memories '10

Christmas Eve brought a beautiful candlelight musical program.  It was just what I needed to get into the  festive spirit, as I have been rather grouchy about Christmas this year.  The next morning brought another specially planned church service with church members portraying "the story" of Jesus birth.  

Later, we had an extended family potluck, and spent the afternoon visiting with one another.  Evening brought a time of opening gifts, and playing games planned by the host and hostess.  They did so well at planning a great evening. everyone had fun.

We had to play a game to find our gifts under the tree.

There was a prize gift for the winner of "musical ball"

Birthdays and Christmas

My son handed me a small box that came UPS.  It just looked like something that was ordered for someone in the household. But she was not at home at the time, so I put it away.  Later, when she arrived home I got to sing "Happy Birthday" and "Merry Christmas" as I handed her the box.  Sure enough, it contained exactly what she ordered...with her parents money.

I think she is happy, even though it was not 'gift wrapped'.

Christmas Season Pictures

A Christmas Cantata.  R played with the orchestra

Christmas Tree

Great Music

Great weather

A Special Visit

We had a whirlwind visit from a special family member. We went shopping and played games, hiked and visited.  Thanks for stopping by on your way somewhere else!

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving was quiet at our house.  Chief went off to work and kids and I just made a special meal and got caught up on home duties or homework. We shared things we were thankful for, beyond the "usual" and read some Bible texts together.