Decorating the Christmas Tree

Cody doesn't like his picture taken while eating... The sloppy joes were good!

It was so fun fun decorating the tree together...Amanda's beautiful smile added to the joy.
Opa with his one of our little gifts...Gavin. He is so much fun to love on.
Awe..Ashley hanging ornaments..
Josh and Gavin putting the star on the tree! Gavin hooked his pinkie on the light strand.

I'm so happy to decorate with our kidos!
Josh sitting there lookin cool!
Gavin in his Christmas stocking...
Josh and Amanda happy together...

Gavin's first outing...we went to Meijer to pick up some Egg Nog and a few other things...

We had such a great time today! After an emotional and beautiful baptism for a mentally and physically challenged 16 year old girl 'Danielle' at her home... We shared in our second emotional and memorable occasion...Decorating the Christmas tree. We picked up Josh and Amanda, and went to Meijer to pick up some Egg Nog for our traditional time. The last ornaments that went on the tree were the ones from Mindy as a gift to me last year. There were 6 photo frame ornaments that I filled with pictures of each of the kids and Jer & I. Then as each ornament was hung on the tree, someone prayed for that person. (Thanks Mindy for the ornaments...they are lovely) It was very meaningful, and hopefully that will be a tradition newly started. After the tree decorating and Egg Nog we had dinner together...sloppy joes & chips..yum... I was the last person to sit down at the table and tearful joy and thankfulness just filled my heart to overflowing as I looked at Ashley and Josh...sitting at our table. This past year has been so painful in letting go, and giving them up to the Lord..now I look at them making great choices for their lives. Josh is doing well at the webster house, and starts school again..for his GED. Yes! He will also be getting a job, and hoping to find an apartment someday. Amanda is still going to school and hopes to finish the school year. Her due date is June 24th. We all had a great time with her...please pray for her and baby as we all know this will be a difficult season in her life. Ashley and Cody just as happy as can be!! Little Gavin...just a bundle of joy! I got what I wanted for Christmas tonight! It is well with my soul...we are in good relationship with all our kids...I couldn't ask for more! My heart is so happy. I love you all more than you know!