Cherished Moments

I thought I would share a few of our cherished moments from our most blessed Christmas season!


Bailey's second "Babies First Christmas" ornament.


Aunt Stefanie was in from Arizona! :)


My growing family!


Bailey after opening her present from Santa. Gotta Love Baby Einstein!


Preparing for our trip to Minnesota......Isn't she adorable!

Wonders of his Love

Joy to the world with truth and grace
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness
And wonders of His love
And wonders of His love
And wonders and wonders of His love

One of my fondest Christmas memories is the Christmas Eve Service at my parent's church. We have attended for as long as I can remember. We have grown from the mere five of us to a group of 12 in a few short years. Although some of us were missing this year, most were there to celebrate the coming of Christ. Our hearts were all joined together in thanksgiving and praise.

While singing the lyrics to "Joy to the World," I was overcome with tears. Amid the candles, the songs, and the families rejoicing together, there we stood; this new family of three. I glanced over in time to see my husband kissing Bailey on the head. Words cannot describe how overwhelming a feeling. We were all gathered together to celebrate the birth of this small child, born to the simplest of people, in the simplest of settings, who died a disgraceful and humiliating death...... This small child allowed my life to be filled with undeserving wonder.

Lord, how can I thank you?

Christmas Cookie

What a beautiful afternoon to stay home, cuddle, drink hot cocoa (with homemade whipped topping...yummy) and make Christmas Cookies! We use a simple, quick and tasty recipe that my mother-in-law passed to me. This would be Michael's favorite holiday cookie.....In the four Christmas's we have been together, I have yet to make them without him anxiously checking on the progress! :)

Dough:

3/4 cup of shortening
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
2 1/2 cups of flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder


Mix together the shortening, sugar, eggs and vanilla. Blend in the flour, salt and baking powder. Cover and chill for one hour. Roll dough to 1/2 inch, cut into desired shapes. We currently have an assortment of Christmas trees, bells, and one Mickey Mouse. Transfer to cookie sheet and bake in a 400 degree oven for 6-7 minutes. Remove to wire rack and cool before icing.

Icing:

1/4 cup softened butter
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp vanilla.

Mix until smooth, add food coloring until desired color. Spread onto cooled cookies....Enjoy!


What is your favorite Christmas dessert?

The Gift that Keeps on Giving

It has been a few weeks since I have shared some updates on Miss Bailey......So enjoy!


Look what Santa left us!!


Baby Blues


Enjoying her first taste of cereal....not quite sold yet.


Best Friends Forever!


Opening my very first Christmas Present!