The Fighter's

December is always magical to me.  The time leading up to Christmas…decorating, slowing down a bit, baking, wrapping, giving, celebrating with family and friends.  And then when the big day is finally here…reflecting on the amazing gift of light and love given to us in Bethlehem so many years ago on Christmas Day.   I love it all.   A few of my favorite moments from this season…   Doug and I started a new tradition last year…date night at Mancy’s steak house on Christmas Eve Eve.  It’s our favorite spot in town…I always get the same thing.  A berries and bubbles martini to start, shrimp cocktail appetizer, salad, petite filet and potato.  And my favorite is our splurge on a fun bottle of wine.  This year was an amazing 2014 Cab from Cliffe Lede. Grammy and Uncle Bob came to visit Christmas Eve. Getting a family picture with this crew is tricky as you can see below!  We always love our time with them!  Christmas Eve service and then ...

This past weekend the girls had their dress rehearsal for dance and I could not be more proud.  These three have put in hours of work and practice with their team.  They have learned multiple routines, spent hours at the studio and have done it all with a smile on their face.  They have been disciplined, devoted and cheerful through it all.  Today I got to watch from back stage and was beaming with pride.  I love the heart and energy they each bring to the stage.  Their smiles are priceless.  And I love watching them have so much fun with their teammates.  And an added bonus...Doug is a prop dad this year!  Proud of him too😊.  And thankful that we have the opportunity to make memories as a family through the girls art.

Kate and Olivia are a pair.  Often where you find one you find the other.  Even at bedtime...they each have their own bedroom but usually opt to sleep together.  I love their bond.  Thier conversations and laughs are so much fun to overhear.  Last year they were on the same dance team together-and we often found them practicing together (mostly Kate coaching her little sis).  Tonight they decided to try “2 person yoga”.  Not sure where they come up with this stuff but it was hilarious to watch.  And in perfect timing I had a Facebook timehop pop up today of the two of them making “soup” out of Pom-Pom’s 6 years ago.  Don’t get me wrong-they have their spats too.  My favorite is when you hear them yelling at each other in the middle of the night because one is snoring or one of their legs is on the others face.  Praying they grow old together in this fun supportive bond.  Along with Ava (who is at a different stage now) but gets...

I got home late from Florida, went to tuck the girls in and found Olivia snuggling with a few friends.  Love her sweet cheeks, little lashes and love for her stuffed buddies. Love our sweet, peaceful Lou.

From the negative temps in Detroit to warm, sunny, palm tree swaying Florida-via a whirlwind work trip.  I will be inside most of the time working but at least got to catch a glimpse of a few palm trees, a sunset and 70 degree weather.  I love Winter but it was amazing to feel the sun on my face for a few minutes. And some morning meditation to share.  Loving these verses lately and really trying to follow this advice and let these words sink into my heart and being.   Give thanks always, pray, trust Him and meditate on good things.

There are fewer things that bring comfort and warmth to my soul than a snowy, cold Winter storm weekend at home with my family.  Thankful for... cozy warmth & home cooked meals. blankets, snow pants, warm Winter boots. glistening snow that makes the earth crisp and clean. animals that make snow tracks in the back yard. bright red cardinals showing bright against snow covered trees. neighbors that work together to shovel sidewalks and driveways. the crunch of snow under hard working tires. sleds and short Midwest hills. rosy cheeks, laughter & snow in faces. graceful snow and the quietness of Winter. Rejoicing in the snow and thanking God for His beauty and warmth on cold days.

Today is our last day in Maui.  I can honestly say that this was a beautiful and perfect trip with my four.  So many memorable adventures.  So many smiles and laughs.  The best time together just being a family and enjoying God's beautiful creation.  We enjoyed the pool during the day...the girls got to swim and hold cockatoo's and we got to relax and enjoy some pina coladas of course!  On the way to the airport we stopped at the Mill House for dinner - such a beautiful place and the perfect setting for our last picturesque Hawaiian sunset. I am so incredibly thankful for this opportunity to take the girls back to where Doug and I honeymooned and explore this magical island with them.  So many memories were made.  With that - we say Aloha Maui!  Until next time!