Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!

Well, it FINALLY got cold in Texas! We had a storm blow through last night, but at least we didn't lose our power. (I think right now it is about 35 degrees outside, but it feels like 24 with the strong wind.) We did, however, have a huge clap of thunder that woke me up. It sounded like it was in our front yard! But, the kids slept through it, we got just enough rain, nothing is ruined, and now it is blissfully cold! I LOVE winter!!!! Glad I planned our fire drill for yesterday! :-)

Christmas is coming way too fast. We just got everything decorated, and I've only bought two stocking stuffers. I'm way behind. So, this weekend I will be out doing some lightening fast shopping with three "kids" in tow! Hopefully the 34 year old will watch the other two long enough for me to shop for him a bit!

Our pastor did preach on simplifying Christmas this year. His sermon was all about not putting such an emphasis on gifts, gatherings, and all the peripheral stuff. He challenged us to slow down, enjoy our families, and really celebrate the true meaning of the holiday. So far, I will have to say that we have simplified out of necessity, and it has been nice. We didn't put lights up outside, which I miss; we didn't cut down a real tree this year, and it has been just fine. I will probably bake some this weekend, but all in all, it has been a simpler year. I'm enjoying it so far.

Work today was very draining - nothing bad, just lots of stuff to do to wrap up the year. I am looking forward to the holiday break so I can stay up late, sleep in late, and snuggle up with a cup of cocoa by the fire! I think we all need a time of renewal.

yIKEs!

Well, it seems the world is shutting down for Ike........at least around here. Our sports photos and games for tomorrow have already been cancelled. Richard's volleyball tournament that he was going to have to work has been cancelled (yea for that!), and we're now just going to hang out at home and watch the storm. We are praying for the safety of our friend, Cathy Groom Smith, her husband, and their three small children as they ride out the storm in Houston. She was there for cancer treatment, and they decided to ride it out. We pray for their safety. We are also praying that we get just enough rain, not too much wind, and no tornadoes tomorrow! Looks like the kiddos will definitely be sleeping in our floor tomorrow night!