empty boxes

One way to fill an afternoon . . .

And empty piano room . . .

LOVE after-Thanksgiving sales!

Book of Mormon stories

Thanksgiving weekend we finished reading the Book of Mormon for the first time as a family. We started reading five versus a night with Justin when he was I-don't-know-how old. We decided it was important to read the actual scriptures instead of a reader or other version even though he was so young. Most nights, I wasn't sure he was even paying attention but then he would ask a question or make a comment that let us know that he was. Naturally, McKenzie and Josie joined us when they joined our family.

I'm thankful for the Book of Mormon. I know it is the word of God.

I'm thankful for my knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I'm thankful for the family I have to share it all with.

Last year's Christmas present

We bought this house over a year ago and right away set to making it our own (remember this, this, this, and this?) but the stairs were to be our first major project. In fact, they were to be my Christmas present! The goal: rip the carpet off, buff up the oak underneath and replace the white wooden spindles with black iron spindles. Didn't happen. Until now!

Before:

During: Justin got to help Handyman Hill replace the poplar treads with oak treads (James, he can join your team any day - he's already got the shirt!) and drill the holes for the iron spindles . . .

add a new chandelier . . .

and, viola!

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it! Merry Christmas!

First foods

Josie's first go at rice cereal and pears! I think she was hungry . . . she ate the whole thing! She's still a great eater - loves pears and bananas - green beans, not so much and we've even tried a few Cheerios. In the words of her older sister, "Go Josie!"

the end . . . finally

Due to the weather, I think we played soccer a full month longer than scheduled - but it was worth it! McKenzie spent a lot of time twirling on the field this season . . . they still gave her a trophy!

Justin loved the game and played really well for his first season. We didn't get his trophy for another three weeks (kind of anticlimactic) but, nevertheless, he's ready for next season . . . go Crickets!