Merry Christmas!

Luke 2:7

She wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them at the inn.

What a wonderful time of the year. The decorations are up, cookies are made, things are starting to slow down. Time to reflect on the meaning of the season. So many wonderful Christmas memories this year. We kicked off the season with the annual Mt. Bethel concert. The kids usually love this and with Jared in orchestra now he really enjoys seeing all the instruments. I took the opportunity to take photos of the kids for our annual Christmas card as well. What a wonderful afternoon! We decided to treat the kids to Mellow Mushroom (Jared's favorite) afterwards, ahhh...let the season begin!

We also had a wonderful evening with great friends and family at Mamaw & Pap's. What a great chance to see how all the kids have grown, not to mention the size of the family. :D

We missed our annual trip to Bethlehem, we were all really sad about this. Schedules just didn't work with Rob being gone out of the country and the kids coming down with colds. The good news for them being sick was that we had more time at home (swim practice wasn't really conducive for coughing fits) to listen to holiday music and watch Christmas shows. Sometimes God slows ya down when things get really hectic. It was a nice chance to catch our breath in the middle of a normally busy time. We did manage to get Kevin to the eye doctor to replace the glasses that were lost in Orlando. He also got contacts so that is a BIG change for him. Once he figures out that he doesn't need to "come in for a landing" with the contact, it should go smoother. ;)

Tuesday of this week we had Jared's 7/8th grade orchestra concert. He is still principle 2nd Violin (yay!). They played little drummer boy and Baroque Fugue (sp?) Afterwards, we treated the kids to a trip to see Santa and milkshakes for everyone. :) Making memories...

This past weekend was busy with a swim meet but we still snuck in some holiday magic. Driving home from the meet we got to see some lights that we normally wouldn't see. I would still like to drive around an see our neighbors lights and decorations. Maybe this week ?? Running out of time I guess... (oh and at the swim meet, Jared had 6/6 personal best events. He had 3 200's on Saturday which was difficult but he did fantastic. Ryan placed in the top 3 for all 7 of her events.)

We are looking forward to this weekend! Christmas Eve will see Grammy, Pop Pop, Gran, Grandfather and Uncle Ricky at the Homerhouse. We will celebrate Christmas here as well and then off to the Halvorsen's for the annual "Cousin's Christmas". I am quite certain that a trip to Hartwell is in the works. We spent very little time there this summer due to crazy schedules, I would like to just plant myself on the couch, next to the tree and the fire until I grow roots. Just kidding, but that is my favorite spot-with a nice coffee and my new book. I know the kids have plans to go to the movies, help Uncle Ricky in the garage and play outside if the weather cooperates. A trip to Discover Mills is in the cards too I hear. As long as I'm with my peeps, I don't care where we go or what we do.

Christmas greetings from the Homerhouse!! Stay tuned for Christmas Day pics. :)