Well, my blogging spree did not last long and then that guilt at being so far behind sapped any desire to actually get something done. Isn't strange to be paralyzed by the undone when doing it will set us free and yet stuck we remain? Thus, in an effort to myself free, I offer up four major holidays in one fell swoop, err, blog post. Ta-Da!
HALLOWEEN
At Quinton's suggestion, everyone eagerly agreed to be a family of ninjas. Nanna and Olivia lovingly sewed up costumes to each child's specifications. They even had beautiful jeweled dragons, tigers, leopards, and flowers on the back. Marie Claire was dressed as the little Chinese princess whom the ninjas were protecting. Her little red dress, also made by Nanna, is actually Olivia's from when she was the same size. It is so sweet to remember my blue-eyed girls in red.
ALL SAINTS' DAY
Xavier ~ Crusader for Christ
Dominic ~ St. David
Olivia ~ Goliath ( Not a saint, but David's story teller)
Grace ~ St. Bridget
Collette ~ St. Zita
Quinton ~ St. Quentin
THANKSGIVING DAY
For my mom and dad... fond memories to make you smile
Thanksgiving was lovely, just lovely. We spent the morning cooking at home before heading down the mountain for some serious family fun. This is my children's home away from home. They love and know every corner. Before everyone escaped to their favorite playhouse, casita, or playroom, I managed to snap a few pictures- Four generations of love captured here. What a blessing! Oh, and that's Xavier in his most favorite padded helmet. He literally wore it to pieces. The boy loves hats, red hats. It makes me smile.
After pictures, everyone scattered for playtime, making the sweetest candy turkeys, and dining on a delicious dinner that pleased everyone. Now that's saying a lot with my picky crew.
After dinner, the crazy kids donned bathing suits and headed out for a swim. While the spa was heated, the pool most definitely was not. However, that did not deter my children. They jumped in, gasped for air, swam furiously for the hot spa, and did it all over again laughing and laughing the whole time. The evening ended in pajamas, cozily watching a movie. I am so thankful for my beautiful family, the love between generations, and bountiful holiday celebrations. God is Good.
MERRY CHRISTMAS
Our Christmas was quiet and family focused just like Thanksgiving. Extended family arrived to celebrate a few days before, we attended Christmas Eve Vigil in another small mission, and celebrated Christmas morning at home with loved ones. The children really shone this year with all of their home-made presents. Collette sewed and embroidered cookie pouches, Quinton made an amazing array of wooden gifts, and Olivia knitted and sewed with love. I think some of the most special moments was the exchange of these true gifts of the heart and hand. Even I managed to squeeze in a few days of sewing to make play food for the girlies. There was so much joy in the giving this year. The baby Jesus must have smiled sweetly upon them!
Olivia and Dominic's birthdays will show up soon. And then I can move on into 2013 with a happy heart of memories recorded, even so briefly.
And Peace to His people on Earth!
What a wonderful day! Mass in the morning followed by food, fun, friends, and family is a recipe for happy children and parents. My incredibly talented mom made all the costumes except for Xavier. Each fabulous costume was more wonderful than the next. I loved just watching them prance and pose as they assumed their heroic identities. Thank you Nanna!!
