Advent

Yesterday, we lit the last candle in our Advent wreath. This was the first year we did this in our family. Four Sundays before Christmas you begin by lighting the first purple candle that stands for Prophecy or Hope that invites us to thank God for the hope we have in Jesus, the prophesied Messiah. The next Sunday, we light the next purple candle which is called Bethlehem, or Peace. In Bethlehem, the Prince of Peace was born. The third week, the pink candle is lit, which reminds us of the Shepherds and Joy that was proclaimed to them on that amazing night. The final purple candle is the one reminding us of the Angels singing,"Glory to God in the highest" . The white candle is lit on Christmas day and reminds us of Jesus Christ, the One born to die for us as sinners, so that we might be redeemed by His blood. This really helped us keep our focus of why we celebrate Christmas. I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas this year!

Christmas cookies

This year, our family is blessed to have our friend, Cliff, staying with us. He suggested cookie baking and decorating for one of our family nights. It was so much fun! We baked sugar cookies, candy cane cookies, and peanut butter cup cookies. Of course, there were a lot of cookies to eat and share with friends, and a new family tradition to remember. Thanks, Cliff!

Dreaming of those lazy days of summer

A new weekly routine

Haleigh had her first basketball practice tonight for Upward Basketball. If you've never heard of it, Upward is a great sports ministry that not only teaches the game, but also encourages good sportsmanship, has a small Bible lesson, memory scripture and the gospel is shared at every game. Haleigh did pretty well, even though she used her left hand to dribble with the entire night. She made a couple of baskets and practiced dribbling. It's a co-ed team and she and one other girl are the only two girls on the team. She's very enthusiastic and enjoyed every minute of practice.

Wordless Wednesday

A glimpse of the Future