Naughty or nice?

Saturday night, I went up to Meredith's room to tuck her in for bed. She would normally be reading her favorite book, but instead she was writing a note... to "Santa Klos". Earlier in the day, she had done something naughty to Michael. They worked it out, but evidently she was feeling guilty about her actions, worrying about whether they were going to have an affect on Santa's generosity to her. It was too late and I was too tired to explain that it's Jesus that we need to apologize to when we are naughty... I figure I can save the theology lesson for another day. It was so cute to see her upset about how she treated Michael and how concerned she was about what Santa thought about it. I will save this sweet letter forever.

Truly blessed

Starting today, we have 2 weeks off of school. I am excited for all that lies ahead of us in these 2 weeks. Christmas celebrations and Maddie and Michael's birthdays; visiting with family; no homework; sleeping in (well, Marky and Meredith will be... the other 2 were up at 7 this morning - uuugggghhhh...! why????); playdates with friends; putting a Christmas puzzle together; daddy coming (and staying?) home; new toys to play with; Christmas lights and holiday tunes and movies. Already, over the weekend, we have spent great time together, playing and shopping and enjoying life at home. Looking ahead, I know that the break will go by quickly, but even so it's going to be very enjoyable. I love being home with the kids. I have my moments of overload, but more often than not, my favorite place to be is home with them. I look into the faces of my children and I listen to the noises around the house, and I am faced with the undeniable truth that blessings are overflowing here. I am truly blessed. Not because of anything that we have done - it is God's favor and grace to us. Here's to the next 2 weeks!