This holiday season my family and I have been blessed with a busy and bustling household.  We started Christmas Eve with my family coming over (Mum and Dad, Darren, Cheri, and Ali, and David, Nancy, Zach, Kate, Liam, and yes, 2-day old Abbie!).  On Christmas Day Mum and Dad popped over for a bit and then we headed to their house.  On Boxing Day we had a lovely, but short visit with Ken’s sister Julie, her husband Doug, and Lauren.  This was the first time in a long time that they’ve visited us here in Kansas.  They reside in Arkansas and were on their way from Oklahoma City to Branson, MO.  On Saturday Keith and Amy and their children arrived.  Our children always play so well together and now that our house has once again become quiet, we’re all tired!

Many people dread the holidays because they have to spend time with their families.  Earlier this year our family suffered a tragic loss when our 21-month old nephew, Weston, passed away suddenly.  We know that Weston is with Jesus although that does not stop us from missing him.  We have, however, begun to appreciate our families that we have with us now.  We try to keep more in touch with our other family members and have made more frequent visits to see them and them us.  Life is too short to be full of “we should have done this more often”.  Truly appreciate what you’ve been blessed with.  What are you waiting for?!

Here are a few pics of the last few fun-filled days!

Wesley got a hold of the camera and started taking pictures!  We were not just laying around the basement but were taking turns playing the Wii!

Lauren and Julie ham it up for the camera!                    Addi and Jocelyn can play dolls for hours.

Karson and Taylor love their Hollister apparel!  Konner and Wesley were twins today!

The Wii, Rock Band/Guitar Hero guitars, and other electronics were a big hit this weekend!