Christmas Was Good To Us!!

I know that most of you like us, had a crazy and fun Christmas. That's why you haven't been blogging. Too busy enjoying the time.

We had an enjoyable Christmas. Luckily Mike had from Sunday to Friday off from work, so we were able to enjoy a lot of time together. On Christmas Eve we went around to look at the lights, then came home and had Hot Cocoa and watched the Mormon Tabernacle Choir's Christmas concert on PBS. Owen was pretty cute. When we looked at lights he said "wow" a lot. It was pretty cute. Then he was so excited to open his Christmas PJ's. What a cutie.

On Christmas we got up and Owen had to come into our room until we were ready to go downstairs. He was ok with that because it just seemed like any other day to him. When we got ready to go downstairs I said "Let's go see what Santa brought!" He got so excited as he headed to the door. When he was halfway down the stairs he could see his new "bike." He had a lot of fun opening his gifts, and ours, and playing with all his new toys. Thanks so much to Grandma and Grandpa for the new rocking horse, to Micah for the Dr.'s kit, to Grandma and Grandpa Pierson for the train, and to Treyson for the puzzles. Owen hasn't touched his old toys for a couple of days. On Christmas it was 58 degrees outside and so we were able to let Owen go outside on his bike. Finally a couple of days later he's learned how to pedal. By summertime he'll be a pro. We also were able to have the Missionaries over for dinner and enjoyed having their company. The day went by so fast and its a little sad that its over. Oh well, time to get ready for next year!

Hope you all had a super Christmas.

Love Ra

Christmas Tag (warning- not for the "believers")

I've been tagged by my sister, and it looked pretty fun. Here goes

Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate?
Definitely Hot Chocolate with marshmallows and a candy cane!
Does Santa wrap presents or set them under the tree?
Why of course he wraps them, I even got a banana chair wrapped once.
Colored lights on tree or white?
White, and a lot. I mean a lot. Our tree has probably close to 1500 on it.
When do you put your decorations up?
About Thanksgiving, but sometimes earlier. Mike and I really love Christmas so our decorations usually are put up any time in November. I still haven't put them out before the stores though.
What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)?
I love Turkey. I would have it many times a year if you could find it and for cheap.
Favorite Holiday memory as a child?
I think the year that Jeff was gone on his mission and we sent him a holiday tape of us singing. I will never, ever, forget that. Jeff, if you still have that, I would love a copy. Just for the sake of listening to it one more time. I won't ever forget dad singing the line of "5 golden rings."
Also, the time that we did the 12 days of Christmas. I always hid behind the tree while Jeff or one of the older sibling ran the Christmas gifts, but I will never, ever forget that feeling. I keep thinking about doing it each year, but usually on the 20th of December.
Oh, and the year Steph and I sat in the back of my parents car and sang along to the music as we went to see the lights on Christmas Eve. Walking in a Winter Wonderland... Walking in a Winter Wonderland. You can sing that line over and over for a very long time.
When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?
I think I was a late bloomer, but I don't exactly remember when. I just remember always fighting with the kids in elementary school. I just knew Santa was real.
Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?
Yep. We do Christmas PJ's at my house and open them on Christmas Eve and wear them to bed. Fun!
How do you decorate your Christmas tree?
We collect Christmas Ornaments everywhere we go. It's a variety of ornaments. Some from when we were kids, a lot from the places we've been, and also it's a tradition of ours to get each other a Christmas ornament each year. This year we've collected ornaments from Niagara Falls, from D.C. and because it's been all about Elmo for Owen this year, there is an Elmo ornament also.
Snow! Love it or Dread it? I would Love it, however Virginia doesn't get that much, and hardly ever before Christmas. We're supposed to get a few flakes tonight, but it won't even make it to the ground. It will probably be middle of January before we really see an accumulation, but it hardly ever lasts more than a few days.
Can you ice skate? Sort of... I've only been a couple of times, but I think I did pretty well.
Do you remember your favorite gift? Some of my favorite was the doll cradle dad built, my doll diaper bag, my Samantha doll. All when I was young. Since I've been married, I really appreciate my Scriptures with my name on it.
What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Being able to talk to my family. Also seeing the joy on everyones face when they open the unexpected presents. I also love thinking about Christmas's past.
What is your favorite Holiday Dessert?
I think I really love Ho Ho Ho cake. Although I haven't had it for awhile. That reminds me. maybe I should find the recipe.
What is your favorite tradition?
I think all the ones I've done with my husband, and the ones I've continued from my childhood. I really like the Christmas Advent calendars, stories, our collection of ornaments, Christmas PJ's, going to see the Christmas lights. And recently all of the Christmas parties. We had one this year, and maybe we might continue that tradition.
Which do you prefer, Giving or Receiving? Most of the time giving, unless its not a surprise. I love seeing the look on my husbands face when its unexpected. I also love looking at Owen when he opens a gift he really wants. Oh what fun.
What is your favorite Christmas Song?
My favorite song is from Michael McLean's forgotten carols. I think its called "Arise." It's #11 on the CD if you have it. I listen to it all year round. Not to Christmasy, but really a reminder about Christs birth and his mission.
Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum?
I like candy canes. Especially in Hot Chocolate. But I don't really like to eat the cheap ones unless they're in my Hot Chocolate.
Ever recycled a Christmas present? I don't think so... I've probably thought about it, but got rid of it by way of the trash. Or Salvation Army.
Tag Time....
I tag Sandi, Becky, Becca, Grandma B., and Bryan.

How has the economy affected you?

Well, it has finally hit us, in a profound way. I knew it would some time, but I was hoping that we could some how come through it without any damage. Michael still has his job, so for that we are thankful. However, we've received a bit of bad news. No overtime allowed anymore. Michael usually goes to work early as encouraged by his boss, but that will soon be a thing of the past. We found out, he cannot work anything over his scheduled 12 hours. If he goes to work early, that's his time, and he won't be paid. All the classes he used to take on his days off will now have to be scheduled for during work. He may occasionally get some overtime by others requesting it, but none of this volunteering to work anymore. This is going to be really strange. Ever since Michael has started working, he has at least gotten 15 hours of overtime per pay period. Now he will only get 4 hours of overtime per pay period. (Because he's scheduled for that much.) Wow what a change this will be. Of course I'm still very happy he has a job, it has definitely got me thinking what we can do to scale back our bills and everything. I thought we have done pretty well on that aspect, but there needs to be more done, or we're going to be in trouble. Oh lets hope that things will get better. So, what kinds of things have you all done to cut back? Any tips or tricks?
I can't help but think this might be a good thing though. I'm looking forward to a little more time with my husband home. Plus it might help us to be a little more thrifty, and more cautious with our money. That's probably a lesson we've needed to learn a long time ago. Anyway, thanks so much for your comments. I would love to hear all you've done.

Busy, Busy!

As everyone else, our Christmas season has been filled with the endlessness of being busy. This last weekend we had our ward Christmas party. I volunteered to make all of the rolls, which turned out pretty good, but it kept my pretty busy for 3 days. The party was a success though. We had a great meal, a short program, an activity for the primary children, and of course Santa Clause. Owen didn't like that part at all! Santa came in the door with a Ho, Ho, Ho, and from that point forward, until he left the building, Owen clung on to me, put his head in my shirt and cried. He may not weigh as much as he once did, but after awhile he sure gets heavy. Oh my gosh! It was kind of funny. Then on this last Monday we had a cookie exchange at our house. It was a lot of fun. There were kids everywhere. We made sugar cookies for the kids to decorate, and then thumbprints to share. It was a lot of fun. We sure tired at the end of the day, and my stomach felt a little queasy from all the sugar, but it was a lot of fun . Now I'm busy getting ready for the next couple of weeks in primary. Staffing changes, Christmas gifts and the upcoming year. Crazy time. I think I'd rather be busy than not though. Anyway, I hope all of you are having a great Christmas season. We love you and are thinking of you.

It's still a girl!

People have been asking if we're sure its a girl. Well, we had another ultrasound on tuesday, and yes we're sure. Still a girl. We've also given into the pink at the stores. Here are a couple of the things I've bought.

The generosity of a stranger

Today I went to the grocery store to get a few things. Just as we went up to the check out line another couple came too. We both waited for each other to get in line, not trying to shove. The other couple just kindly said, "you're here with a little one, please go first." Owen was being good, but I said Thank you and began to unload my items. Owen struck up a conversation with them as we were waiting. They asked Owen if he liked shopping. I was still unloading my things when I turned around to see a dollar in Owen's hand. Of course I immediately took it and gave it back. The older couple wouldn't take it. Owen took it again to only try and give it back just like mommy had. I had no choice but to accept in the end and say thank you. So here's to the generous couple in the grocery store. Thanks so much for being kind... Just because... It's nice to witness that every once in awhile and be reminded to be kind to others also. Thanks

The Tale of the Christmas Tree

This previous Sunday we began decorating our Christmas tree. We got it up, got all the lights and had just finished putting on all the ornaments. We decided to put the train underneath. Mike crawled underneath to put the track together when we heard a loud crack. The tree started to tip towards me. Mike and I both grabbed for it and caught it before it could fall. We had to take all of the ornaments down and lay the tree flat on the ground. The stand couldn't be saved, and we thought we were going to have to buy a new "fake" tree. Luckily, after some hunting, we were able to find an artificial tree stand at Lowes. Once again, the tree looks beautiful. What an adventure.

It's a Baby!

Well, everyone has been wanting to know what it is... so, here it is, It's a Baby! I did have an ultrasound today and we were pleased to know that it's a Girl. Yep that's right, a girl! We're pretty excited, although I haven't bought anything girl yet. Don't worry. Just give me a couple of days. Here are some pics from the ultrasound. Most of them are of her face. She generally had her mouth open and her hands up by her face most of the time. It is so fun to see the babies body move and see all of its toes, fingers, head, spine and all the bones growing. Truly amazing!

Random

It's time to post again, and all I have are random thoughts and pics. Owen wanted to help mow the lawn, and so just like daddy he put on the gloves and tried to push the lawn mower out. He watches us all the time and does things just like us. There is also a picture of Owen in his Elmo pj's and Elmo blanket. Owen loves Elmo. He says Elmo all day long and carries the blanket with him wherever I will let him. There is also a picture of him on a day we took a walk. He loves it when I get the camera out. He always says "Cheese." The last picture was taken last Sunday after I got the camera out to show Daddy some pictures. Owen was crying trying to grab the camera. Michael said sarcatically "take a picture now, I'm sure it'll be real cute. I think it's the cutest one of all. Owen is doing ok. We took him to the dr. this last week and they want to do some blood tests and a sweat test on him because he hasn't gained any weight in the last year, and he has lost a couple of pounds. He's gone from the 95th percentile for weight to just under the 50th. They are worried that there might be an issue causing him not to eat. So, for the next month or so Owen will be going to the dr. quite often. Poor kid. As for Michael and I things are going ok. Michael works a lot and is enjoying his job for the most part. Primary is keeping me fairly busy. Next week I have an ultrasound. We're looking forward to it. Anyway, I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving. We're missing you and thinking about all of you.

Its Gone!

It's official. I've lost my mind. I think that sometimes I just think too much. Well, worry too much about everything. I'm too busy worrying that I've lost or forgotten important things. I just don't know what to do. I sure hope that its pregnancy thats causing this and not just me. Please tell me that it's all going to come back again. I would really appreciate it if I got it back today. I kind of wish tha I had Owens big brain. At least he knows where his is at.

To my Owen:

I can't believe how big you are. You turned two yesterday, but it feels like I just brought you home. What a sweet boy you are. Thanks so much for all of those "loves" you give mommy, the smiles, the I love you's, the kisses and all of the giggles. I didn't know that I could love and care for a child as much as I do you. I hope I'm teaching you everything you need to know. I hope I show my love to you as often as you need it. Most of all I hope you grow up knowing that you are loved and cared for. Happy Birthday little man! I will forever love you! Mommy

Catch up time!

I know, I know, it's been awhile since I've posted. Time is just flying by. On Sunday Oct. 26Th I was called to be the primary president for our ward. I've known for quite awhile now, but finally they put me in. It has been crazy ever since. Also, Michael's parents came to visit the last week and we've been enjoying traveling around. We went to see Michael's work, to Philadelphia,- we were there when the Phillies won the world series. We didn't see the game, but talk about a crazy party afterwards. All night we heard people going up and down the streets screaming and honking their horns. In Philadelphia we went to see the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Edgar Allen Poe house. We also couldn't leave without stopping at Geno's to get a Phillie Cheese Steak. It was incredibly good. We then came home and celebrated Halloween here in Culpeper. We went to a Trunk or treat and to a few houses in the neighborhood. Owen was pretty cute. He wouldn't say anything, but he'd hold up his little pumpkin to get the candy. As soon as we sat down he dug right in- Wrappers and all. I had to stop him. Really cute. Saturday we went to West Virginia to go on a train ride. It went by an Eagle Reserve. We saw deer, a few eagles, a couple of blue herons and of course the beautiful fall colors. I would like to post a few pictures, but unfortunately my camera broke on Halloween night. Sunday we stayed home and did primary stuff then on Monday we went to James Madison's house and then came home to celebrate Thanksgiving and Owen's birthday. Unfortunately Michael has to work on both those days, so it was nice to celebrate with someone. We gave Owen some of his presents on Monday. It was so fun to see him open them. He loves Elmo, so we bought him some Elmo pj's, slippers, a blanket, and stuffed animal. It was so fun to watch him open it. He would open it until he could see red furry parts and the shout ELMO! Grandpa has pics of that so hopefully I can post them once he sends them. Thanks to Grandma and Grandpa Long for the sweater, and to Grandma and Grandpa Pierson for the book and outfit. So cute.Then yesterday the family went home, and today Michael went back to work. I'm getting back to a routine, but the house seems so quiet. (even with Owen.) Anyway, here are the pics I do have.

I've been tagged!

Well, I've been tagged. So heres the deal. I was supposed to open up the 4th folder and blog about the 4th picture. However, because my pictures are all filed by the day, my 4th folder didn't have a 4th picture. So, I'm choosing a different #.

This was my 6th folder, 6th picture. This is the day we went to Luray Caverns with my parents while on vacation. Owen was mad because I wouldn't let him just walk by himself without holding my hand, or daddy's. Mr. Independant just wanted to explore on his own which isn't so great when there are a lot of people and you're on a tour.

I tag Janae, Shu, Mel, and Becca!

Flying Circus Airshow!

Today has been kind of a fun day. Here in Culpeper they have an annual free airshow at the county airport. I thought it might be fun to do, but was a little bit anxious, because last year a lady crashed her plane and died. I decided I'd take Owen and go by myself. (Daddy's sleeping) It was a lot of fun. Before the airshow you could walk around and see a bunch of airplanes. They also flew model airplanes that people had put thousands of dollars into. One guy even made a lawn mower into an airplane and flew it around, even did a few maneuvers with it. That part was pretty fun to watch. When they started the real airshow a guy skydived with an American flag down to the airstrip. Then they flew a bunch of WWII airplanes. They also had plane walkers preform. That was amazing. I learned that the wings of the plane they walk on are actually made out of fabric. I'm not sure what kind, but weird. They also don't wear parachutes. It was really cool. Then they started with the more modern airplanes and the aerial stunts. It was time for us to go home about then. It was really loud, and I think it was hurting Owens ears. I think I will go in the future. I would have liked to stay longer, but couldn't. I guess the pilots that did the show today do a weekly show in Bealeton where we used to live. However that one is not free. They also offer rides in the planes, for a cost. Loved it!