"Christmas Time {Was} Here"

Even though the holidays flew by, there were many highlights: Lights at Temple Square, Luminarias at Leavitt's Mortuary {over 6,000 luminarias representing the lives of loved ones passed}, playing in the Nutcracker--always timeless, a tie skirt made by my darling Lori, an Assorted Course Dinner at the DeYoung's {we each drew courses and brought our favorites}, and of course all the festivities on Christmas Eve and Day. It is always a blessing to be around family for the holidays.

Lovely Lights

Corey and I had such fun watching Elsie's eyes light up as we decorated the tree. She took every opportunity to help--even to clean up the pine needles from off the floor in true toddler fashion.

{straight into the mouth}

"Do {We} Have Room?"

This clip was passed along to me and it touched me so much I felt to post it. If we have room for Him, we will feel His love in abundance. With that love, we can do as he has commanded--that is to love one another as he has loved us. There is nothing else that can bring greater JOY--in its purest form--to our lives.

Southern Charm

Earlier in November, we paid a visit to the Rabe Family {Corey's sister and fam} and were warmly greeted and treated with all the Southern Charm you could imagine. When we walked in their apartment, you could smell the ever-so-yummy pumpkin chocolate-chip cookies she'd just brought out of the oven. She set them out on the most darling glass pedestal platter.
Those cookies hit the spot.
Ben, Kendra, Sophie, and Graham refreshed our memories with details of Civil War history. We ate at some really fun and cozy places--including a new ice cream parlor {MY FAVORITE}. A nice drive lead us to delightful Leiper's Fork, where we ate a
hearty Southern breakfast at Puckett's.
We learned all about Studio B where Elvis, Dotty West, and other Country heroes made their debut. We ended a fine trip walking down Broadway in Downtown Nashville listening to the twang in all its glory--echoing out into the streets. We LOVED it.
Thank you Rabes for a good time.

Hauntings 2009

I think I was most excited for Halloween this year. Being home was probably the main factor in my excitement {that's obviously an understatement}. I found this onsie and it made me think of a little strawberry. With Connor's generous consent in lending us his beanie (knitted by my aunt)--we added some felt details and voila! She's a sweetie! I thought I'd be clever and be some grapes. Corey didn't want to be a fruit--so he was nice to throw on the carrot costume for me. :) Thanks Corey. I probably took at least ten pictures of the "Elsie" jack-o-lantern carved by Mimi Crowell. We found it all lit up as we walked up to the Crowell's door. It was wonderful to trick-or-treat to our grandparents' homes and share the Hallow's Eve with family! Happy Haunting!

Miss Elsie Jayne turns 1

It is hard to believe Elsie was born a year ago! Elsie is nothing but smiles. She's really easy-going and LOVES to be around people. It's often hard to go down for naps because there is just so much to see and be a part of. It's amazing how this little soul can bring so much joy and purpose into our lives. How we love you, Elsie Jayne.

Our Hmoob {Hmong} Missionary

California Fresno Hmong-Speaking Mission here we come!

From Summerings

Kyle left for the MTC on August 19th and just flew to Fresno, CA last Wednesday. He called the day he left for the state and it was incredible to hear him speak Hmong! We also heard from him yesterday through an email saying he LOVES his area. He says the Hmong people are some of the sweetest, most genuine people. The Hmong language has 8 tones, so the First Vision Lesson kind of sounds like a song. I really am amazed at how fast Kyle has learned the language. There is no doubt an extra ability--aided by the Spirit--is pronounced upon those missionaries called by the Lord to share the message of his gospel to all the world.
We love you Kyle!