A few pictures from our very eventful month. I realize Hunt isn't in any of these... he's going through an un-photogenic phase.

What a whirl-wind December for our family! It was a memorable one for sure, filled with Christmas parties, family, friends, FOOD...oh my...so much food, and most importantly the celebration of the birth of our Savior.

We spent most of our Christmas Eve and Christmas in Coweta at the family's cattle ranch. My momma and stepdad were in Dallas, so we celebrated with them the previous week. We traditionally have steak/prime rib for Christmas Eve dinner followed by games and fellowship. The kids always open ONE gift, although this year I think they talked us into THREE. We read the story of Jesus' birth from the Bible, and of course "The Night Before Christmas." Then Santa goes to work. Dave and I enjoyed getting the gifts ready, complete with stomping around and ringing bells outside the kids' bedroom window.

The next day after gifts were opened and MORE food was eaten, we went to my Dad's to exchange MORE gifts and eat MORE food. I got to meet my stepbrother and some of Shelley's family we hadn't met before. That sounds strange to say, since I have known Shelley nearly my whole life -- everyone was lovely. After that, we traveled to Sand Springs, to spend time with Stephanie and The Harrison family. They always make us feel part of the family and right at home. By the time we got home, unloaded our 5 bodies, 3 dogs, and car full of gifts, we couldn't get in bed fast enough!

The next morning, I woke up early ready to "conquer the beast" a.k.a. take down the Christmas decorations. When I decide I'm done with something, I'm REALLY done, so down they came! I spent the day organizing and putting away gifts, but did take a break to have lunch and a pedicure with Susan and Ady -- it was a much needed treat!

I didn't really intend to take 2 full weeks off of school, but we really have needed them. Teaching was beginning to feel like a chore, and I intend to spend the rest of the week re-vamping my curriculum and getting a better attitude. We will ease back into studies mid-next week. Of course, we have been working on a few subjects everyday to keep everything fresh.

Wishing everyone a safe, healthy New Year. We actually have plans to go out for the first time EVER!!! Looking forward to it for sure! Next week's post... New Year's Resolutions!!!