The Week Before CHRISTmas

"'Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!'"  Luke 1:45

Remember our Advent calendar?  Well, it didn't exactly go as I had planned.  After about the sixth day, the Roosters started asking if they could trade out treats they saw in future bags.  Really?!!  I finally decided to just read the story of the day and let them choose a bag number.  I don't think this will become a tradition.  HA!

Had engine issues this past week.  The Colonel took care of that for me.  I drove his truck to work.  He said, "Can you please keep it clean?"  To which I replied, "Gesh!  I'll only have it one day."  To which he said, "I know.  Will you please keep it clean?"  I ended up leaving my breakfast wrapper in his cup holder.  I didn't want to disappoint him.  HA!

The big rooster has been tolerating the little clucks a little more lately.  Blake has such a laid back, quiet personality.  The twins just drive him nuts b/c they are so NOT laid back when they are together.

Monopoly Jr. is another favorite board game.  Santa is bringing another version of this game.  Nick calls it "Monopholy".

Art work from school.  I might get these framed and hang them for decorations each year.

John Ryan drew this nutcracker in class.  I was really impressed with it.  Not bad for a six year old.

Um, Hello!!!  What about "the mom"?  (I love the way he wrote "playing".)

I taught a literature unit revolving around salmon so on Friday I brought in salmon stew for the students to eat.  They loved it.  I don't eat it.  The Colonel loves it.  He likes his minus the corn and potatoes though.

I got permission to put this student's picture on my blog.  I get a hug every morning before she walks into my class.  What a sweet way to start my day!!

Yesterday Blake went shopping with me for last minute Santa stuff.  (No, he never smiles for a picture.)  We had the best time together.  He is such a funny kid.  Keeps me laughing.  I just love him!!

We've all been sick lately.  This is what a portion of my kitchen counter looked like for about two weeks when we all seemed to have something going on at the same time.  Between vitamins, OTC and RX medications, I felt like a pharmacist counting and measuring medicine.

My new addiction--honey lemon bread.  I could bake myself in the middle of a loaf and eat my way out.  I love bread.  Total break freak!!

Got to the sanctuary early today while Mr. Lee was rehearsing with the orchestra.  Alberta sang my favorite CHRISTmas carol today ~ "Oh, Holy Night".  I love the words and the key in which it was written.  I can sing that song just like Alberta in my car and alone at home.  HA!  

I loved all the flowers.  Just a happy, joyful place.

A "selfie" after church...I wore a little gold sparkle today...After church and work, the first place I head is to my room where I immediately change into t-shirt and sweats or shorts depending upon the weather...I can't stand to stay in dress clothes at home...I am definitely not a Lisa Douglas off "Green Acres"...

The next few days will be house cleaning, meal planning, grocery shopping and present wrapping...I am also hoping for a nap or two in between some of that...

Merry CHRISTmas!!