Christmas, New Years, Whatever!

Christmas Eve Service. Aren't they cute? The older boys were at their moms.


Christmas morning.

Giovanni made this snowman. We have had a lot of snow this year. It has been awesome!

Aren't those robes the cutest? THese girls love to jump.

This is our New Year's Dinner. Homemade Ethiopian. The Shiro Wat was a little too spicy for me, but I tamed it with the Iab and my version of Doro Tibs. It was really good.

A quick update and then I am off to bed. We have been crazy busy with "the Holidays". Christmas was insane - Hmmm 12 people in one little living room - 4 of them little ones who have only celebrated none to one time in their short little lives? Yes, crazy. Awesome. Beautiful. Amazing. Blessed! Within 5 minutes of sitting down to open presents we heard "But, I didn't want a scooter, I wanted a skateboard." And "Is it Ahnika's turn yet?" "Mine!" Ahhh, so their little minds forget where they came from. :) We spent the day (and week) with my parents and my grandma. It was so nice to have them hear, but I must say, they are probably glad to get back to their beds! New Year's eve was fireworks, sparkling cider, games, and fun. Today we hung out and let the kids be LOUD for most of the afternoon. It is great to sit back and enjoy your children playing, laughing, and being kids. God knew what he was doing when He hand picked each child for us. I get so stressed so often with time, money, work, kids, dogs, messes, etc. that I forget that it is all so temporary and my life will be over soon. What legacy do I really want to leave? A stressed out teen? A poor son? Or a lost soul? So, I plan to focus on what I am to live for. Jesus. I mean he is the reason why we are all here, right?

I met this girl who is awesome. She has been through so much in her life. I was writing a letter to her about life when it really struck that I am so good at telling others about God and what He does for us, but I never really believed it. I never believed that he really loves me no matter what. Even when I lose it on my hubby, or I break a promise, or gossip, or criticize, or judge, He still sees me as a beautiful woman full of love and compassion. He gave so much up for me. And He would have done it just for me - just for one person He still would have sent His son. How awesome is that.

So, I reflect on my life and this last year. I have gained so much in my life, I don't EVER want to look back. I will try to look forward - to run the race He has planned and keep my eyes on Jesus (read Hebrews 13 for this passage - it rocks!).

Have a great 2008!