Morning to Night and somewhere in the Middle

Hi Everyone! I know it's been a while, but here I am. Thanks for waiting:)

I had a great weekend off and really enjoyed my shopping extravaganza! I was able to get the kids done and some stuff for several other people, plus we all got new pillows-what a difference that makes at night, ahhhh sweet dreams :)

I tried taking some nice pictures of my decorations, so here's a few of those.

My new stocking holders. This was my 5$ find after Christmas last year. This same set is 25$ at Target this year. Ahhhh, see it pays to shop the crazy sales. The other side of the mantel has a Santa and a tree.Scrappy's favorite hiding place. It figures, since it won't be staying. The first time he was down there, we went looking for him forever. It's not easy to find a black dog on a dark green fabric (guess that's something to keep in mind if we ever get to change the carpet)

my "homage" to snowmen.

The kids were really excited when I'd put up their little tree on the landing for them to decorate. I also got them a few new ornaments, they had a great time putting it all together.

Luke helped me get the impossible garland up in the doorway from the kitchen to the living room. I thought it would be fun to have it there and tie on the cards we receive, little did I know that the arch was plaster! (there's a little repair work to do once the garland comes down-oops :))

I couldn't resist buying this cute basket at Michael's, it's filled with cinnamon scented pine cones. I'll put a candle can in the middle once I get it made.

Here's one of the candle can's I made for one of Luke's two teachers. Luke picked the colors. I have 3 more teacher gifts to make and than 4 daycare moms and anyone else who I think this would be good for :) I used formula cans and I've been stocking up. I love this idea because it's so easy and they can be tailored for anyone. Find me a girl who doesn't love candles (than I'd say, fill it with chocolate :)

It's been great getting all my stuff out for Christmas this year. When I get the outside done, I'll take pictures there too. I have little things in the kitchen and bathroom too. Last year before my dad died I had bought quit a few new items and since everything came to a halt when it happened, opening my bins has been like opening presents with all the things I didn't put out and use last year.

As the day comes closer and closer, marking a year since my dad died, I'm reminded of just how very precious time is. We are only on this earth for a short time compared to the eternity we will spend in Heaven. I love the Joy that God has spread in my life and I plan on living in that glory this Christmas season. I'm taking the time to enjoy the little things, like Luke helping with decorations, the kids putting up their tree, time spent as a family playing games. I even managed to get us all to sit at the dinner table with no t.v. last night (I hope to make it a regular Wed. event-the only day with nothing going on). I love the memories were building every day. Making life special here and now before it's too late.

Take a minute today, too reflect on what your doing to let go of the needless stress's in your life, surrounding the holiday season. What are you doing to capture the moments?