It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

After spending two weeks on the road helping/visiting Jordan and Claire and their adorable families, it was time to get home and get to work.  We loved traveling with Andy and Chelsea and having lots of time to visit (more on that later.)  They are such darling newlyweds and we love having them in town so that we can do some things together.
Luckily Rick and I had put up the outdoor Christmas lights on our house before leaving town.  That last Monday, December 2, we put the finishing touches on the lights on the outside bushes and then wham...snow came fast and furiously and the temperature dropped dramatically.  We were so happy we got the outside work done when we did.  Then it was on to decorating inside.  I had the help last year of Janet and Mary Ann who came to down to help me.  I couldn't help but remember what was going on this time last year.  I received my 6th and last chemo treatment on December 5.  I was very worn down by it all and feeling pretty weak and tired (not to mention in pain, nauseated and rung out).  It was so wonderful to have my sisters who weren't working come and lend a hand.  I also got a fresh Christmas tree delivered by my nephew Dustin and honestly, that whole week of kindnesses will NEVER EVER be forgotten.
This year, I was feeling energized, far from nauseated (to the contrary)  and ready to go.  I love getting my Christmas decorations out!  I love the feeling they bring into our home.  I love setting the stage for a month of remembering Christ.

hand carved from Mongolia

hand carved from Zimbabwe

handmade from Alaska

from Peru

From Portugal

From Japan

second from the bottom from Venezuela

Olive wood hand carved from the Holy land

Kid friendly from Fisher Price

I made this ceramic set when we were first married

from South Africa

From Venezuela, Mexico, New Mexico and other places

Willow Tree store bought

Stitched by Jordan

A nativity advent calendar that is 33 years old made by friend Ginger

Various sets from different places

Home for the Holidays!