Don't Judge By Appearances

Sarabeth gave Christopher a Power Rangers figurine for Christmas. He LOVED it! He screamed and hugged her so hard he almost knocked her over.

Later, when the figurine was out of the box, holding his sword (which, I am informed, is called a mega-blade) and his fire smasher (???), I told Sarabeth I wouldn't want to meet him in a dark alley. "Why do you say that?" she asked. I told her I just thought he looked scary.

"Oh, no, Mommy," she exclaimed, "you just don't know his character. He's a really good person."

Celebrating Jesus!

Of all things, Christopher asked for a Jesus doll for Christmas this year. I didn't know if there was such a thing as a Jesus doll, but I Googled it, and, sure enough, I found a Jesus doll... and, he talks! He shares some Bible verses, and he shares the story of feeding the 5000 with five loaves of bread and two fish. Christopher was SO happy when he opened his Jesus doll! Makes me happy, too....

The Spirit of Giving

Last year, when Christopher was five, he wanted to pick out his own gift for Sarabeth. He and Mommy went shopping, and we found an adorable pink sequined purse. Christopher loved it immediately because he knew Sarabeth would love it. He was so excited to wrap it up for her and put it under the tree. He asked if he could give it to her on Christmas Eve, since he just couldn't wait any longer. I loved watching his face as he gave Sarabeth his gift and watched her open it. Just as we expected, she loved it, and it was a beautiful Christmas moment between a brother and sister who fight constantly. I was so blessed to see that they really do love and care for each other, in spite of their daily squabbles. Giving truly brings out the best in each of us!

Honoring and Remembering

We can't stop thinking about those who lost their lives last week in the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. Yesterday, Sarabeth made cut-out paper angels to represent the twenty children and six educators who were killed. She strung them on our mantel and wrote a name on each angel. We are honoring them and remembering them, and continually praying for comfort and God's peace that passes understanding for their families and friends.

Christmas Memories

Last year, Christopher got a drum set for Christmas. I will never forget his reaction when he tore the wrapping paper off that huge box and realized what it was. The look on his face was priceless, and he yelled and yelled: "This is the best day of my whole life!"

If Only....

Three-year-old Christopher: "Mommy, guess what you're getting for Christmas? A blue convertible with enough seats for all of us!

Moral Support

Little Sarabeth, in the car on the way to the dentist: "Mommy, will you stay in the room with me while I get dentisted? I would feel more comfortable with that."