We spent several days in Nebraska for Christmas and enjoyed such a relaxing time.  We played many games of Euchre & Pitch and ate fantastic food – Mom & Dad are the best cooks!  We also worked on a challenging new puzzle and managed to finish it within the four days we were there.  

We drove out to Lake Ogallala and spotted quite a few bald eagles.  Lake Ogallala is the small lake opposite Lake McConaughy; on the other side of the dam.  During the winter months, they make the lake area their home.  With binoculars, you can easily spot them in the trees and dipping down into the lake for fish.  

Lake McConaughy in the winter is still beautiful all iced over

We celebrated Christmas again when we got home with Mary Jo, Lynn, Ryan & Luke.  We’re so thankful for these times with family!  

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!  May your time with family & friends be relaxing and refreshing as we celebrate our Savior.  

One of my favorite things is a simmer pot with cranberries, sliced oranges, cinnamon sticks, & whole cloves.  Smells like Christmas!

The last couple of months have been very full for our family!  You can always tell when we’re busy – I start to disappear from posting regularly.  It’s just the season of life we’re in right now.  

Initially, I thought I’d get caught up with posts before the end of the year, but that may not happen.  So instead, I thought I’d pop in with a quick update, and take the pressure off trying to finish by a deadline.  

The kids finished school yesterday and are thrilled to be on break for 2 1/2 weeks.  Anna is very busy these days with long dress rehearsals for the Nutcracker, which performs soon on December 20 & 21.  After that, we can all have some slower days.  In the meantime, we’ve still made time for the important things – decorating and cookie-making!