Merry Christmas

Christmas has finally arrived.  I want to enjoy this moment, reflecting on the birth of Jesus, and the real reason for the season.  As I reflect on Christmas, I'm reminded of all the blessings I've been given.  I continually realize that sometimes I move through life so rushed that I don't take moments to enjoy the "here and now".  That is my goal for this holiday break, to begin to enjoy all the wonderful things that happen at the moment . . . and be able to slow down to take it all in.

This isn't a new realization for me . . . I've recognized it for a while now, but after an intriguing conversation with my uncle yesterday, I've really been thinking about it. During our conversation it came up how before I know it, I'll be 25 years older, possibly considering retirement, and I'll look back and realize the last 25 years have gone by in a flash.  It will just seem like yesterday that I was sitting there talking to him about it.  And my children at that point will be ages 37 (close to my age now) on down to 27.  Where will the time have gone?  Will I have taken the time to enjoy the moments?  Will I slow down enough to know the moments to enjoy?  The other discussion was how sometimes, as younger people, we feel the generations older than us are "missing out" on things and not staying up with what is happening now.  But . . . in all actuality, we determined that they are "choosing" to miss out on those events . . . they have figured out the value of slowing down and taking the time to do the necessary things, but not all the extras.  Hmmmm, my thoughts on that confirm what I've always thought, "Age creates even more wisdom and those older ones earn the award for being much more wise."

So, as I sit here on the eve of the most amazing day of the year, the day Jesus was born, I am praying for more wisdom.  I am praying for the strength to slow down and be able to say "no" when necessary to enjoy the "here and now".  My children are growing up incredibly fast as it just seems like yesterday that Ryan was born but in reality it was 11 1/2 years ago.  Also, I realize I do not have that much more time to have them living under my roof to teach them everything they need to know before being on their own. That's a lot of pressure as a parent, but one I am willing to embrace and put my energy into.  Parenting is a gratifying, rewarding job daily, and I'm sure I'll learn even more about that over the next 25 years.

Now, on Christmas Eve afternoon, I'm starting right now . . . sitting here enjoying time with my children, allowing things in the house to just be as they are, a mess, and take in the moments before they pass me by:)  I'm determined to recognize the moments to enjoy as they are happening . . . not look back and wonder where they went.

Merry Christmas everyone and may you enjoy this holiday season with your loved ones, family, and friends!   

Happy Holidays

This year we decided not to do a Christmas letter in addition to our picture cards we sent out. We put a little card in each envelope encouraging everyone to keep up with us on our blog or facebook.  With that being said, we decided that we best update our blog. It goes without saying that our lives remain busy, busy, busy. The parents of children whose kids are a few years ahead of ours are always telling us that it doesn't slow down anytime soon. They are not kidding.

Ryan and Tyler are both playing basketball again this winter and both are having successful seasons. You can find them at junior high and high school games on many nights of the week as well. They are both also very involved in music. Tyler continues to take piano lessons and Ryan is still playing tuba and has now taken up bass guitar. Both will be performing at the Eden Mennonite Church Christmas eve program. As you can probably tell, all that activity translates into nearly constant taxi service for mom and dad.

Andrew and Grant are not active at all (ha ha).  Andrew has enjoyed his first semester of preschool (as long as his buddy Lane is there). At least now he will tell you he has some other friends there. He is learning colors, letters and numbers and has brought home some neat projects. The preschool also had a neat Christmas program a few weeks ago. This was our favorite song --- especially due to the adorable props. (not positive the video loaded - sorry)

And he was an angel for the Christmas Story at preschool.  We decided this could possibly be the first and last time he will ever fall in the "angel" category.  What do you know, his buddy Lane is an angel with him:)

 Andrew and Grant also had a visit with Santa at the Lincoln Perk in Hesston.  Andrew was very willing to sit on Santa's lap - Grant, not so much. 

 Grant continues to work on new words and repeats EVERYTHING his brothers say. We continue to work on his speech and eating, both of which are improving. We are very blessed that they are able to go to Grandma Shari or Miss Elaine for child care each week.

We wish you Merry Christmas, a blessed holiday season, and a great 2011.