Cat & Catdog

Reesy: why does she love me so much?!

Missy: she's just like me! Except smaller and barks. I love her. 

Santa Question

A few weeks ago....

😡😡😡 So Will just asked if Santa is real. Apparently a little girl at school shared with him that Santa isn't real and parents just deliver the Santa gifts. Then he proceeded to ask me why I want to know what he asks Santa for. I am floored. I was not ready for this yet. He's only in 2nd grade!!  Will is so smart and I see his wheels turning. 

After much thought about what to do I sat him down and we had a great conversation much later that evening.  I went into it prepared to tell him everything.  I started by asking him if he believes in Santa.  He said yes because ...and then listed a few reasons why.  It was obvious he is still ready to believe.  So we had a great talk but I was careful not to lie to him.  I told him that some people believe in Santa and some people don't.  But what that little girl said to him was not nice.  And he shouldn't say something like that to anyone - anyone at school OR his BROTHER because it could upset them.  I told him that I was really glad he asked me about it, and that if he has more questions to ask me.  Then I told him I wanted to read him something and read him this portion of a letter I've seen on Pinterest that is really great: 

"Santa is bigger than any person, and his work has gone on longer than any of us has lived.  What he does is simple, but it is powerful.  He teaches children how to believe in something they can't see or touch.  It's a big job and it's an important one.  Throughout your life, you will need this capacity to believe: in yourself, in your friends, in your talents, and in your family.  You'll also need to believe in things you can't measure or even hold in your hand.  Also, I'm talking about love, that great power that will light your life from the inside out, even during its darkest, coldest moments. "

It was a good conversation.  I'm comfortable with where things left off.  Even though this happened well before Christmas and I'm just posting it now, everything went great and it served as an excellent reminder that these boys are growing up so fast and to enjoy every second of it.  

Christmas Cookie Decorating Tradition

Poison Ivy Strikes Again

These poor boys.  Cutting firewood has proven horrible for us the last two winters.  Even in the winter when there are no leaves, we manage to get poison ivy.  This year may have been the worst yet, especially for Will.  I didn't go with them this time to cut the wood, but I helped unload it and stack it, and I got poison ivy all over as well.  No clue how.  Luke never gets it, and he even got a patch on his arm this time.  We are going to have to be extremely careful next year.  Both of them were on steroids and super itchy all over Christmas break.  :(   

My little mini-me

2nd Nine Weeks Awards

So proud of these boys! 

2nd nine weeks awards. 

Will was honored for A/B honor roll and one of three students in his class doing the Book It program. 

Dane was one of a few in his class honored for doing great both academically and behaviorally.  (no letter grades in kindergarten)

Great job boys!!

Finally!

First snow of the season this morning! We were all so excited! (Except maybe Luke- he doesn't get excited about a lot:)

Sweet Will could play outside all day long. Dane likes it for about 30-45 mins. And of course then they both love the hot chocolate with marshmallows to warm up after. 

Hoping for a lot more this year!

2016

2015 was a good year. The past couple of years have been full of ups and downs. I look forward to what 2016 holds and I only hope that time slows down. God is good. I have my husband, my 2 precious boys, my mom, our families I love dearly, and our amazing friends. I have a habit of looking forward to what's next.  This year I am focused on living in the moment and being the best _____ (I wear many hats) that I can be at that time. Cheers!