Where I've Been...

Hello!  My, it's been a long, long time, it seems!  It's been awhile since I've gone this long without posting, but life has been extra busy.  I'm happy to report that I'm finished with with my fall semester of studies!  I've been working to finish up final projects and then my final exams.  It's so nice to be on break (finally).  The kiddos have been extra busy with church and Christmas activities.  Mr. Jones has been working like a dog and is now enjoying his much-deserved vacation.  It's a good thing he has some time off, because we have lots to do to prepare for Christmas day! 

Here's a quick look at what we've been up to the past few weeks.  You may want to go ahead now - scroll to the bottom and pause the holiday music. ;) 

Our "Elf on a Shelf" Sprite Sparkle found his way back to our home. :)

The basketball season at church ended with a visit from some Iowa Energy basketball players!

That's Cavy under the hoop.

The kiddos were excited to get autographs!

Mr. B had his first vocal concert of the year.  I'm frustrated with these low light pics - I'm not digging those "laser eyes."

Mr. B is in the front row - center.

The following week, we enjoyed his first band concert of the year. (Darn camera!)

Mr. B plays the baritone.

It finally snowed (ugh) and the boys took full advantage of it!

Those are some happy faces!

I'm sure the thought of throwing at that chunk of snow at his brothers never even crossed Mr. B's mind...right?!

We baked some Christmas sugar cookies.

Bear enjoyed the baking! :)

Cavy did an awesome job rolling his own dough and cutting out his own cookies!

Cousin Alex joined us for the fun!

Shay is working hard. :)

The youngest 3 kiddos participated in the church Christmas program.  (Grrr...laser eyes)

Jaron did a great job on his lines! :)

Miss Shay started the program with a solo.  She was nervous, but did great! :)

There's my cutie! :)

Angels We Have Heard On High

Joy to the World!

Mr. B attended a Show Choir day camp at the high school. 

They put on a short show at the end of the camp.  It was so fun to watch! :)

He did a great job! :)  (There's those darn laser eyes again.)

Cavy performed with the Cherubs @ Church.

Mr. B performed with the Young Prophets @ Church.

Miss Shay had a winter dance show.

The finale.

Daddy & Cavy brought our little dancer some gorgeous pink roses! 

Someone is enamoured with his little girl.

I'm pretty sure the feeling is mutual!  :)

I hope you have been doing well these past few weeks!  Christmas is less than a week away.  Take time during this busy season to remember the real reason we celebrate - the birth of our Savior.

Blessings~