December 18, 2013

 We had dinner at the Curry's place last night.  I brought my camera.  Good girl, Elaine.  :)  I am working on low-lighting photos.  They frustrate me!  But I got a few that I liked.  Cassidy sings with this bear every time we go to Grandma's house.  I love it.  Not every one does.  :)  She's so cute.  It's a love song. 

 This is one of the things that I love about Nina.  The small things she keeps.  I am such a thrower-awayer.  I don't keep things like this.  I think that is why the kids love their home during holidays.  The decorations are fun!  I decorate with a few things here or there, but nothing fancy.  They'll have to get their fancy at Grandma's house!

 Since I am sugar free right now, I found a few things to eat during the holidays.  It's been HARD.  Okay, I have not been perfect.  I ate some chocolate last week, but yesterday I discovered these sweet little chocolate peanut butter cups - raw honey, coconut oil, cocoa powder and natural PB with no additives (only peanuts).  They are amazing!  And I could easily leave the cookies and fudge for a half dozen of these treasures.  ;) 

 There I am!  I got in a shot! 

 Breakfast for dinner?  YES PLEASE!  I mean, no thank you.  I ate my salad and two tater tots.  But it's getting easier, and I am not wanting these things as much as before. I feel pretty good, too.  :)

 Sadie Lady. 

 Another detail I love. 

I want Xander to stay this sweet forever.  I love this boy.  

 Nina bought these ornaments ages ago - when we were together at William's Sonoma.  I didn't even remember, but she pointed it out last night. 

 Lots of stockings for the kids and grandkids.

 Little feet.

 I so love this tiny piano with the snowpeople that skate around on top.  It's one of my favorites.

 Lolly, for some reason, is terrified of the Curry house.  She does this every single time we visit.  Sometimes we leave her home to spare her the pain, but she HATES it when we drive away without her in the car. 

More memories.  

All of this Christmas "cheer" is fun.  We love the music and the decorations and the food.  Most of all, I love the time with our family, I love reflecting on my belief in the Savior of the world - Jesus Christ.  I like to spend time evaluating my behaviors, my objectives, my heart.  And as inward as those things are, I especially love the focus on turning outward. 

What can I give to Him?  I have nothing at all.  What can I give to Him?  Would my gift be too small if I offer my heart, when I kneel at the manger tonight?  

Merry Christmas all!