It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Well, not so much. Today is about 70 degrees and the sun is shining. BUT inside it is. Our tree is up and the gifts are piling up underneath it. Rowan is loving watching The Polar Express--his favorite movie ever and Holland is busy taking ornaments off the tree and trying to eat them. We've made a few cookies and cupcakes, but will do more now that Rowan is on break from school. I had my 2 choir performances last night and they went really well. If you haven't gotten your Christmas card yet, it's on its way. Merry Merry Merry Christmas to all! I probably won't post again until after the big day so you can see pics of the children.

One of the things I have enjoyed most about Rowan going to preschool is the conversation we have each time when I pick him up. Here are some excerpts of the funny things he says:

me: Rowan, how was school today?
Rowan: good (such a boy!)
me: what did you learn at school today?
Ro: we ate cupcakes
me: no, what did you LEARN?
Ro: candy canes smell like toothpaste
me: what other sugar did you eat at school today?
Ro: rice krispie treats shaped like Christmas trees
me: huh-so, did you have school today?
Ro: mommy, you're so silly-you just picked me up
me: did you sing any songs at school today?
Ro: yes
me: which ones?
Ro: the candy cane one-do you know that one mommy? proceeding into song with all kinds of words relfecting candy canes and their greatness in the world
me: no, i don't think i do
Ro: i made it up!

then we both roar with laughter. it is so much fun to see him having so much fun at school. he is notorious for making up words to well-known melodies and makes sure we pray for his classmates every night before bed. he is sweet and smart and incredibly playful. i am eternally thankful for him and all the smiles he brings to my heart each day.

The Saturday after Thanksgiving John and I hopped on a plane and headed out for a few days of relaxation and time together, which was very much needed. THANKS to my parents who kept the children for those days and nights!!!!!!!!!!!! Here are a few pictures of us in the Bahamas. We stayed on Nassau, visited Paradise Island and Harbour Island. It was fantastic to be away and get recharged.

So sorry for getting behind...

Thanksgiving was a great time with family. My parents came from Chicago and my sister and brother-in-law drove in from the D.C. area. We enjoyed lots of good food including a new addition to the menu-pumpkin trifle at the recommendation of Matt. I think it's been voted in to stay! My sister took lots of pics, but I was busy managing the food and the children. When I get a chance, I'll post them. One very interesting thing did happen on the day of thanks. We received a call from our neighbor telling us there was a HUGE bird in our front yard eating something. I was seriously hoping it wasn't the turkey which was in the garage roasting in a roaster. Just kidding! We rushed out to see what it was---an eagle of some sort having his own Thanksgiving feast-a squirrel! The picture's not that great, but enjoy!