A Patchwork of Blessings

Winter Wonderland

We have had plenty of snow so far this winter.  The norm in Utah Salt Lake Valley is about 11 in by the end of Dec, our total so far is 21 in.  I thought I would share some more pics.  The kids love everything about winter, except that they now have the additional duty of shoveling the drive, we all helped shovel the 8 inches we got on Christmas Day.  The kids convinced Art to help them build an igloo, they are up to row 4.  We will add pics as it progresses.

Happy Elves

Just wanted to take a few moments to share some photos from our family album.  We had a very wonderful Advent and Christmas.  Very busy as usual, but many fun, happy memories.  Just some holiday decorating and cookie madness. Here's hoping for a Happy New year!

2 December 2008 - Daybook Entry

FOR TODAY Tuesday, 2 December 2008...

Outside my window... snow topped mountains, almost pink with the sunrise.  Cool morning, about 45. 

I am thinking... about Christmas.  We have the house decorated and most of the gifts are ready to be shipped, just a few last minute stitches, before I'm done.  I decided to make most of the gifts this year, and have enjoyed making each one.  It was like taking special time with that person, as I made each gift. 

  
I am thankful for... our Air Force family.  We spent a wonderful Thanksgiving with some very special friends.  We have been very blessed with wonderful people at every place we have been stationed and have amazingl friends all over the world.  We are very thankful for each and every one.

 
From the learning rooms... Jesse tree readings (faith), life cycle of the frog (science), math, and reading.  

From the kitchen... breakfast -- cinnamon scones & warm cider

      lunch -- potluck/leftovers

      dinner -- Balsamic Garlic Chicken, risotto, and green beans

I am wearing... red fleece top, black workout pants, tennies, hair in a messy ponytail.  

I am creating... our last Christmas gift, a quilt.  No other hints!

I am going... to ice skating with the kids.  They take a 6-wk "Learn-to-skate" session and this is testing week!

I am reading... more home organizing books, HouseWorks by Cynthia Townley Ewer.  Preparing for the new year!  I need to re-work my household notebook and am trying to garner some new ideas. Also, Making the Cut by Jillian Michaels, it is a pretty hard core workout book, not sure I am that dedicated/determined right now.  

I am hoping... for snow, actually.  We haven't had any in the valley for a while.  The mountains around us have snowy peaks, but a dusting would be nice.

I am hearing... quiet.   The kids are still sleeping and the dog has gone back to sleep.  

Around the house... just maintaining.  I have done a thorough cleaning over the past few weeks and now we just need to keep it up.

One of my favorite things... candles, Harry & David's Peppermint bark and flannel sheets.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Advent Reconciliation Service at the chapel, finishing my Christmas decorations, and planning a winter menu.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

 Remember to visit  The Simple Woman blog for more daybook entries.  

Have a wonderful week.  Chelle