As is tradition here at the Rouse House, the Christmas Tree was put up the Sunday after Thanksgiving. This year was extra fun because all three of our girls are old enough to help.
They love going through the ornaments and finding the one that belong to them and reminiscing about when they got it. Like Ella when she saw her Baby's First Christmas Ornament, "Oh, I remember when I got this!" I smiled, as Ella was a whole 4 months old when she got that, but hey, who am I to say what she actually remembers and doesn't. The point is, she has happy memories. And isn't that what it's really all about!?
I also really enjoyed picking out their 2009 ornaments. Every year I give the girls an ornament that they will someday take away with them when they get married and started their own family tree. I always try to get something that reminds me of the last year. This year Ella got a Nutcracker, Avery got Elmo and Claire got a cute snowman.
I got a little tear in my eye this year as I realized that yet another year is almost over and my babies are getting so big. We say it all the time, but really, where does the time go? I am so grateful for the events in my life that have made me really slow down and enjoy the moment. I am so grateful that I have a God that loves me so much that he's willing to guide me in the direction he chooses, even if it doesn't seem like the path I want.
I am also thankful for the gift of humor. I pray that my children always keep me laughing, as I'm sure they will.
Rouse family shopping for their 2009 ornaments.
Mother all sentimental and glowing with holiday love and cheer.
Oldest daughter picking out her ornament, "Mom! I found the perfect one!"
Mother, thinking of something sweet like a smiling snowflake or peaceful angel, walks over to see.
The ornament: A stocking that says, "Santa, you can leave the presents, but please, take my sister!"
Nice, real nice!
