Dirty Dancing

Tonight I watched the movie that initiated my love for dancing. No, it wasn't the nutcracker or some classic dance show....it was Dirty Dancing! First, does it get any better than Patrick Swayze?! I think not! I loved the movie when I was younger and I love it now. Tyler did say that he thinks the nose job was a good investment....I agree. That's mean, I know! I love my life and wouldn't change any part of it. I do have to let y'all in on a little dream I used to have and wish I would've gone for. I really, really wanted to try out for the rockettes. Not that I ever would have made the cut....I did meet the height/weight requirement (that was 10 years ago! Ha!Ha!)....I sure wish that I would have tried though!! Oh well, it was fun getting lost in the movie again. I did realize for the first time watching that in the movie Penny was a Rockette!

Tulips

Last night I dreamt of tulips. I don't know if I am anticipating redoing our back flower beds in the spring or if I am dreading the lack of color coming in the next two months. I strongly dislike January and February. I don't like the cold or the time spent cooped up in the house. I am hoping the wii, some crafts, and working on reading will provide some much needed entertainment. I also need to clean out some closets and do lots of paper filing. Anyway, I feel like I need a tropical vacation. I guess thinking of planting some beautiful tulips will have to suffice.

Merry and Bright!!!

We had a WONDERFUL christmas day! Asher was a little worried that Santa skipped our house because they weren't in bed super early and Leila was upset that it wasn't snowing, but they forgot their worries when they ran in to see the loot Santa left. They were very happy kiddos and have enjoyed their gifts all day. We were blessed to have a delicious meal and lots of family to share it with. It was pretty sweet seeing my dad play in the floor with Leila and let her put lip gloss on him! Definitely treasured times. It's hard to know how much to do or not to do for your kids and how to help them realize the real reason for the season. We don't want them to only think of Santa and gifts but we also want to embrace this childish, magical time. I don't know if there is a right answer but we are trying. I know one thing, they will have amazing memories of Christmas and being surrounded by the family that loves and supports them. I don't think they will remember the gifts but the love they will remember. I hope they also feel God's love and realize what a gift he gave us on Christmas Day. Happy Birthday Jesus!

Twas the Night Before Christmas

Christmas eve service was amazing at church. I love when we light the candles and sing Silent Night. We had our annual Christmas Eve party at Nana's house and it was lots of fun. My favorite parts of the night....watching Asher get very upset and protective over his parents about the game Dirty Santa and Leila's high pitched voice exclaiming "Thank you, Thank you, Thank youuuuuu!" and "It's what I've always wanted!". When we got home, the kids went right to sleep while visions of ballerinas, barbies, transformers, and sky racers danced in their heads!

Ready!

We are officially ready for Christmas! Groceries bought....check! Presents bought....check! Christmas cookies baked, decorated, and taste tested....check, check! I am very excited for Christmas and the fun family time! Leila keeps asking if we can go outside and make angels when it starts to snow on Christmas. Last year really was a magical Christmas! It made an impression on our kiddos! Asher and Leila keep insisting that they bought me a ring that one of my friends gave me. ;) I just go along with the story and they say "you're so welcome!". Ha! Our sweet friends came by tonight and brought us some yummy homemade cinammon rolls....can't wait to indulge on those Christmas morning! Also, I say this every year but I LOVE getting Christmas cards. Thanks to everyone who sent one! Hope your Christmas is Merry and Blessed!

Partying

What have we been up to the week of Christmas? Well, partying and celebrating, of course! Monday night, we went to my mom's work christmas party. Tuesday night, we celebrated with Grandpa and Lala. Lala just came home from an extended stay in the hospital, so we really appreciate them having us over. We had a fun time!

My Two Favorite Gifts!

Lights, Camera, Christmas on the Square!!!

Christmas on the Square is a beautiful show of lights. It is so much fun to go up with the kids. Asher was hoping that there would be a better display of blue lights! Ha! Ha! They rode the ponies and what trip is complete without buying a sword that lights up and makes sword noises....thanks Gigi. After the square, we headed to Shakes custard for some yummy concretes. I really enjoyed getting out for a little Christmas time fun.

Meeting Sweet Nora

We went to Fayetteville tonight and met our sweet niece, Nora. She was the best little girl while we enjoyed dinner. She even smiled at me....twice! Asher kept saying how cute she was in her little dress and booties. I have to agree....she was precious! We exchanged presents and Asher loved his golf set. I'll end this post with a picture of Leila with her presents. Sparkly, furry ear puffs, rhinestone necklace and jeweled gloves....she LOVED them!

Breakfast with Santa fun!

Thanks to Mom and Nana for your help....I think it went great!