the feeling of christmas

pictures from our weekend.

we went tree picking. visited the Streets of Bethlehem  and put ornaments on our tree. We listened to Christmas music and bundled up to look at Christmas lights. We made memories. We started new traditions and carried on old ones. We were cozy inside much of the time and bundled up outside for new adventures too.

 

tree picking

savoring their sweetness. 

and soaking up their innocence

 

 

 

 

 I'm so grateful for our family.

 

 

 

 

 Streets of Bethlehem  (the story of Jesus' birth. An live outdoor reenactment)

 

 in the market place (making clay pots and mixing spices)

tree decorating

There are so many moments to be treasured with the boys during this time of year. I love reading Christmas stories with them. Guiding them in understanding what Advent is and why we really celebrate Christmas. Sharing in old traditions and creating new ones... Hearing Caleb sing "Happy Birthday Jesus" melts my heart and this morning at church Lucas looked up at me with big blue eyes and pointed to baby Jesus in his book and said "jesus" then pointed to his heart and said "heart" Their innocence and joy is so tender. Family walks to look at Christmas lights before bedtime is another favorite activity. I love this time of year and hope the peace of the season blesses each person, everyday.

 

 

 

Oregon Thanksgiving 2013

We had such a wonderful time celebrating Thanksgiving with family in Oregon!

Here are some photos from our trip.  (prepare for picture overload)

playing at grandma and grandpa's house

 the marbles were a favorite.

An afternoon walk. It is so gorgeous behind grandma and grandpa's house!

(32 weeks and feeling huge!)

 

Thanksgiving Day at Dave and Lisa's house (great uncle and great aunt for the boys. so much to explore around their house)

 cousins!

 

 

 

family pictures

 The boys being silly with Aunt Mary and Uncle Craig (cheesers)

 family pic (I know. I know. I'm about to pop. But still two months to go thank you! Love my boys though)

 grandma and grandpa with their grand boys!

 caleb being silly

 love them.

 and the two pregos :) one month apart! baby boy due jan 26th and baby girl due feb 26th. I am so excited to finally be an auntie :)!

 and lastly, group picture with great grandma and great grandpa steinkamp :)

 

It was a fun day with family. Feeling thankful and so blessed by our families.

morning at the farm

it was a beautiful day to explore the farm.

the lights parade

the boys loved all the lights, music, and dancing!

Thanksgiving Video



We had such a great trip ;) Always sad to leave, but always a smile as I look at pictures and remember all the special moments shared.

Hope everyone had a blessed Thanksgiving!!