My Developing Six Pack

Thank goodness I like a low key holiday because I've spent the last 2 weeks working on my six pack abs (coughing that is). Sick, sick, sick for more than 2 weeks. This darn cold won't go away and my snoring then coughing have me sleeping on the floor in my office to let my poor husband get some sleep. Thank goodness I've got some energy back because the pace has picked up. And I can finally breathe through my nose so I can kiss my husband again! I missed that. But I don't think the kids appreciate our kissing in the kitchen very much.

Russ got the first pimple on his forehead since college days. Must be job hunting stress. He's working hard at finding something despite the fact that most are laying off right now. He has his first interview this week. Not rooting for that one, but he seems excited about it. Something better will come up. Patience, faith, and optimism are carrying us through! I even had a friend bring me flowers and chocolate when she heard the news. I know everyone is keeping us in their prayers and we feel very loved!

So back to the merriness of Christmas!!!!

A little grumpiness by an unnamed blond was going on during the gingerbread fest so I declared the number one rule of gingerbread house making...when you make gingerbread houses, you HAVE to be happy!:) Of course.
Then Ava says, "I know a rule!!!! I know a rule!!! If you WANT candy, you GET candy!!!"
We made freezer jam or a plate of goodies for friends. Oh my gosh the kids love this. Seriously, love this. Hopping in and out of the car dozens of times...more than thrice a few of the back seaters accidentally kicked people in the face trying to climb in or out head first.We have been rockin' this smashminton set in the family room!!! Massive massive amounts of indoor entertainment. It's like badminton, but smaller rackets and more indoor friendly. Even the little kids can do it. Highly recommended.

Chad's guitar recital.

Sarah's First Orchestra Concert. She LOVES LOVES violin. After hating piano for the last year, I wish we made the switch earlier.

I'm wondering why I try to shop in November when my kids change their minds about what they want for Christmas by now! I'm headed to the return desk already.

Now just for fun...I'm posting some Christmas Eye Candy...
As the president of my friend Nancy's fan club, I declare her rock star status. Adore her. Adore her talent.Another tree Nancified in her entry. I walk into her home and hear angels singing! She will be decorating in Heaven too!
Eddie Ross' Christmas drinks. Pomegranate seeds and a green sugar rim! Could work with Martinelli's or cherry 7up. (I'm using Karo's syrup to get it to stick...he made his own syrup with Pomegranate juice and sugar).

Can't wait for my Mom and Dad and brother to come over for Christmas Eve and spend the night! They are the best present ever. And I, the Program Queen, will be putting on a merry merry program and making tri tip dinner barbequeing in the snow. Still haven't finished my gift to Jesus. Just a few more days left!