Post-Christmas Catch Up

I know, I'm WAY behind on posting. I had great intentions of writing before Christmas, but just didn't make it. So, let's get caught up on all of the pre-Christmas goings on.

Erin got to be Mary when the kids sang in church the Sunday before Christmas. That was cool, because last year, Alana played Mary at our old church's program.

And the girls were, once again, in the church's Extreme Christmas Musical. And this year, I was, too...behind the scenes anyway. I was part of the costume/prop team, and then helped backstage during the performance. Boy, did I learn a lot! Especially when Elvis had a hard time even getting into the building! (Don't ask!)

But I digress...the girls, and all of the kids, were fantastic! Alana & Erin were "poodle skirt girls" and each had a little duet. Each year the performance gets easier for the girls...which is why I "urge" them to do it. :) I think this year was even easier for them as they're more familiar with the church and the people there. We all had a great time!

The "poodle skirt girls"...

Alana singing her duet....

And Erin singing her duet...

The girls also had a piano recital at their teacher's house. They each played solos, duets, and one song all three girls played together (with Claire, Erin's bestest friend). They were fabulous, and I think they even had fun!

Well, that pretty much sums up pre-Christmas. I haven't even begun to touch my Christmas pictures yet....hopefully, I'll have those up within a couple of days. It was a good Christmas though. The weather looked like it was going to really mess things up, but God was good and got us to mom & dad's safe and sound (although, not up the driveway!) It was definitely one to remember...Dad having to pull us up, and then down the driveway. :) I didn't even really miss the cookies and candies...and I never heard the girls complain. I think we all probably felt a lot healthier this year without it.

We do have some very big news, though. After 22 years at Marten, Barry has moved on to a new job. This was a VERY big deal for him...and us. But, I at least, feel very happy and at peace with the decision...even though we're taking a 25% paycut. Barry will finally be back to working days, so we might be able to have a normal family life. It sounds as if they really want his opinion of the status quo...and will value any changes he makes. I think just having new challenges will be good for him. I'm excited. My prayer is that he might actually LIKE his job...that would be a huge change.

I plan to start off the new year right...I'm getting baptized on Sunday! I'm SO excited. I've wanted to be baptized ever since being born again...about 4 1/2 years ago. But my old church doesn't believe in "believer's baptism", so I guess I just put it off. But the excuses are over. Sunday I will obey my Lord...He said to "believe and be baptized," and I will.

Here's to a fabulous new year!!!