Christmas 2011

Beautiful Cinderella dresses that Grandma made for Christmas!

The four of us-December 3, 2011.

Dustin's family. Missing Uncle John. December 3, 2011.

Dustin's maternal extended family on December 23, 2011.

This is the product of our cooking project from the last post. These are Cupcakes in a Jar. Lara wanted to make these for her aunts and uncles, and Claire obviously helped. This was Lara's idea, but I was surprised to find through my searches on the internet that these are actually the IT thing right now with cupcakes-who knew?

We had a really nice Christmas. We spent Christmas Eve with my family, and Christmas Day with Dustin's family. Then my siblings and I went out to a movie later that night. We are blessed to spend such great time with family. Dustin gave me a Christmas surprise. He said it was not anything I could open and couldn't use it for some time, but he wanted to tell me about it. On May 30, 2012, we are leaving for a week's visit to my favorite place on Earth to celebrate our 10 year anniversary. We are going back to Prince Edward Island!! I was completely shocked, because I honestly did not think we would ever go back. I am so excited...I am starting my countdown....5 months!

But although the Christmas season is full of the temporary surprises, gifts, and fun visits, it is easy to forget that all of this happiness originates from one true source. It is not just in realizing that the amazing love and salvation of our God brings us such contentment and peace in our lives...but it is also worth remembering that the small moments of happiness are also gifts from God, to help us enjoy this life, and experience the true meaning of life-to love, to have fun, to be with one another. Whether you believe in God or not, the truth is still there for everyone. God has made your story for you. And He is the author of love, fun, and happiness. Merry Christmas.

The 4 of us on Christmas Eve.
(Mom and Dad, 30 years old. Lara, 5. Claire 2.5)