Greetings

Yesterday afternoon was my first day 'out' since the baby was born.  My energy level has been down and frankly there has been enough to do inside the house that I haven't stepped out the doors much at all.  I/we have gone shopping (Costco) which was great fun.  We've been to a few peoples homes for different reasons...  But no playing outside with the kids, no blowing leaves, no jumping on the trampoline, no walks, NOthing outside here on the property at all.  

So, we threw on some scarves, bundled the baby up (as it was maybe 40 degrees outside) and we went for a quick walk, saw a few of the neighbors and just plain had fun looking at the dead salamander, tiny birds that don't fly south for the winter...

Then Nate took me (and Trae) on a date to do a little Christmas shopping, have a quiet dinner of nachos and a calazone, grab a coffee on the way home, then watch a movie too late into the night...  It was such a relaxing time AND we accomplished many things on our list for Christmas.  We just enjoyed each other and Trae was nice a quiet the entire time so we felt 'alone'.  

Because of the baby arriving and me not being up to doing a lot this holiday season yet, we have been at a slow pace.  I guess it's kept us focused on what is important this Christmas...  Christ.

Below is a traditional photo we get when Mom tries to take 6 kids out and make them all look at the camera, they aren't even required to smile, just LOOK AT THE CAMERA without moving.  So, here's to all of you, HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!