Christmas Through the Ages: 2000-2014

It helps to look back. To count your blessings. 

For 2014, I wanted to count Christmas blessings. 

And, from what I remember, it had a lot to do with family. And, love.

 2000- First Christmas as husband and wife.

 2001- First child was born, our "Bright Girl."

 2002- Snuggled up in our cozy sweaters

 with the baby in a hoodie.

2003- Our first son, Luke, was born on December 5, 

but passed away shortly afterward.

2003- Bright Girl loved music and 

clapped along with her new Alphabet Pal.

2004- Bright Girl loved singing Christmas carols.

2005- "Little Man" was born and 

Bright Girl had another brother to love.

2006-Bright Girl stills loves to bake.

2006-Little Man still loves his cars.

2007-Our newest addition to the family, "Sunshine Girl."

 2007-The awe and wonder of Christmas.

 2008- Family trip to Stone Mountain.
Should have been called Cold Mountain!

2009- Family trip to The Great Smokey Mountains.
At this point we didn't know Little Man had developed autism.
He liked to look away or close his eyes for the camera.

2009- First Nativity play. Can you guess each person?

2010- Family trip to Maggie Valley, NC, where
we were snowed in.

2010- Sunshine Girl didn't mind. She loved the snow.

2011- Stayed home for the holidays.
I didn't want to travel with a newborn.

 2011- Introducing,"Little Bit." 
She thought it was a relaxing Christmas.

2012- First Christmas after Billy's job loss. 
We sold our house and moved into an apartment.
The kids didn't seem to mind as long as we were together.

2013- A new year with a new job 
and more presents under the tree.
But, the kids didn't seem to notice the difference.
They were happy either way.

Because it was Christmas.

No matter where we were or what was happening in our lives, Christmas--the fact that Christ came to rescue us--has brought us hope, joy, and peace. 

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas in 2014!

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope."

Romans 15:13