Tightening ones belt...

Tax increases, Christmas paid for, looking at the possibility of no bonus this year, has found us tightening our  belts (budget).  Three words I really hate.  Was going to say "dislike," but that would be lying big time. Wishing I could find more joy in cooking, eating out less, less traveling, no new clothes or shoes, etc... I am thankful for all I do have.  Please don't think less of me, but being frugal is like the plague to me. It is not one of those things I am good at.
 
I have tried painting trim and doors, fixing up, cleaning out, reading, being sick (that one not by choice), and a slew of  other stuff to keep my mind off the negative.  Maybe it can be blamed on January, the economy, the weather, or anything else blamable. When it gets right down to it, it's my pathetic attitude. I make the choice of how I want to handle challenges. Lincoln's words, "you are as happy as you make up your mind to be," rings in my ears.  For now, I will choose to be thankful and work on the totally "HAPPY" part...carry on.

Up to date until August

Family picture are done.  It will be the first time in 6 years.  I learned however, if you want more grandchildren just schedule a family picture, and they will come.  We were excited to hear that our cute Virginians are blessing our family with G-10.  That is our code for the grandchild count.  We were just blessed with G-9 in October when baby Zeke arrived.  Ten is a good number.  Now how to reconfigure my grandchild wall of fame.

It was the coldest December, since we moved to Houston. Were planning on having pictures taken outside. Due to Zeke's bout with RSV and Gavin's cough, we had to find another option. Jarod called and got permission to use his law office, BOA building downtown. It ended up being a good choice.  Here are some of the final pictures.  Included a few of the funny ones. Gavin hope you will always laugh when you get older and see your fingers (bunny ears)  I certainly will.

Girls only

My cute Daughters

The Boys

My three sons

The G-9

Look what we started



Love them all!



SURPRISE!

It was probably the hardest secret I have ever been challenged to keep, but I did a pretty good job. Jamie and Becky decided to drive to Houston for Christmas! They wanted to surprise the siblings, we were thrilled. The challenge was to get ready for company without telling anyone.  Had a pack and play and booster seat in my car for a month. Trying to act like I was just frantically cleaning, instead of preparing for company, wasn't easy either. Then the day came. Told everyone to come over for a Christmas kick off party, it being the last day of school before the holidays. The grand kids love CICI's pizza (heartburn just thinking about it), I had made fudge and popcorn balls, and Brianne made sugar cookies for them to decorate. Were they surprised to find their brother and family waiting for them!  I was getting the pizza and missed out on one of the reunions. Smiles on everyone's face were there for the rest of the evening.

Then on Saturday we were off to the Nutcracker. Sara came through for us again. Told Bri that my Sister and her husband were going with us. Little did she know the tickets were for Becky, Gavin and Laynie. Not only did Becky enjoy it, but Laynie, and Gavin were thrilled. Sara took them back stage and gave a signed set of toe shoes to Laynie. Mike the stage manager showed them how every thing worked, including how to make fog. He was so nice. He even turned on the snow for awhile. It was a magical night. Sara danced flawless as usual.

Movies on Christmas Eve we filled an entire row. We really enjoyed the movie.

Christmas Eve was at Becky my sister house. She always makes things so nice for everyone.

Christmas morning, the girls liked the ribbons the best. Jamie and Gavin modeled their new head lamps "Rudolph" style. Took a picture as the kids were getting ready to come down stairs.

On Thursday we went bowling.

Saturday found us getting family pictures, first time in 6 years!  Hopefully they turned out okay.  After pictures we went to Pappasito's to celebrate Brianne's 32nd Birthday. Pappasitos is a birthday tradition for her.

Then Virginia crew headed home Sunday. Tears were shed, hugs were given, and a hope that they will be transferred back to Houston soon!  We had a great week together.  I am tired, wouldn't have it any other way. Decorations are now all put back in their boxes or totes, a very few hints left (Christmas treats) of what was a wonderful Christmas. This Christmas will surely go down as the one of great SURPRISE!