Photos were not optional. . .

for these people. Lucky for me, they all cooperated.

Family photos

Kellie, David and kids were here for a full week! She asked for some family photos. I LOVE it when that happens. It doesn't very often cuz I'm usually just taking them anyway. I love it because: 1. I love taking photos 2. It makes me feel appreciated 3. I love taking photos of my kids and grandkids!

I have too many Christmas photos! I have no idea where to start. You all blog your Christmas stuff and give me some ideas.

Some lovely faces

from a very lovely Christmas party. Jill, much thanks and praise to you!

Merry Christmas to MEEEE!

For Christmas this year (and we have been saying this for SEVEN YEARS now) we [Dave] finished our fireplace in the basement. And since we'd have a big mess anyway, I decided we should paint also. What a job! We painted first, and then Dave got to work on the fireplace. He made the mantle himself, including the distressing, painting and staining (see the close-ups) and VOILA!!! (So mad at myself for forgetting the BEFORE photo)

This is a sample of what the wall surrounding the fireplace has been for seven years. Seriously.

Dave even carved our initials on the side of the mantle. Is that true love or what?

And I FINALLY got to put my tree up! It is right next to the fireplace, so I had to wait till that mess was gone. (Thanks for asking Andrea.)

And this is my new ornament for '08. Santa's Sweet Ride.