Neutralize him!

Ethan got a laser assault set for Christmas, and has been neutralizing everything in his path ever since. Hayley is a good sport for engaging him in combat even though she invariably suffers neutralization.

Christmas Day!

Bethlehem Village

In Afton, VA about 30 miles from Charlottesville a local Baptist church stages an elaborate recreation of Bethlehem, complete with camels, surly Roman guards, sheep, and a live nativity. We made the trip again this year, and enjoyed taking time out of shopping and the hustle and bustle to remember why this season is so special. The kids loved going from shop to shop learning about papyrus, pistachios, clay pots, camel hair blankets and olive oil.

If there was any question of how much of the experience had sunk in for Ethan and Hayley, it was erased the next day when Ethan greeted me at the door and said, "Shalom, Dad!" "That means hello in Jesus' world!"

Uncle Rico

The holiday chocolate fountain was an instant hit with Ethan and Hayley. As you can see it didn't take long at all before he was sporting a slim little Uncle Rico moustache, but it did take hours for him to fall asleep that night.

Winter Princess

Mariah doing a little winter modeling during our trip out West

Mariah's Baby Blessing

 

We went home to bless Mariah. There's a slideshow at the right from our trip.