Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas from The Piks!!!

What an amazing time of year this has been. I have enjoyed thinking about a different name of Jesus each day this month. He truly is the greatest gift ever given. And once you have Him, He's yours to give to others! I say that mostly for myself. It seems to be a little easier to reach out to people during Christmas. I invited neighbors to church to hear our Christmas musical. I had kind words and smiles for strangers. But now that the tree will be thrown to the curb, the nativity set boxed up, and the Christmas music turned off, will I be a light in the darkness? I think I'm going to leave out a few small Christmas items to remind me to shine for Him.

Tonight I just want to leave you with the Name above all names:

Jesus

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. Luke 2:16-20

Merry Christmas from our family! These are the brownies we baked for Jesus' birthday.

Santa brought Coleman a crane and grader.

Santa brought Coleman and Spence a play kitchen. They love it! (Two little elves named Billy and Brian worked really hard putting it together last night. Thanks guys!)

Up On the Rooftop Tonight?

What a fun day we had with Nana and Poppa! We went to church and then had lunch at Jason's Deli. That was Coleman's request. Before we got our food he was talking and singing. A lady at another table looked over several times, maybe a little annoyed. I didn't think Coleman was being obnoxious, but I asked him to use his inside voice. I thought of telling her what flight we'd be on Tuesday morning in case she too was flying and would want to change her plans!

Coleman is really into singing right now. I've noticed that he makes up songs to tell what he's doing sometimes. Today Brian and I took him to Wal-Mart with us while Spence was napping so he wouldn't drive my parents crazy asking to open presents. He started singing, "We're not going to Montana, just Wal-Mart!" Jingle Bells is another favorite of his. He sings it at the top of his lungs. Hopefully he will not try to entertain the entire plane on Christmas Day.

Santa is coming to our house tonight! We worked out a deal with him since we will be getting up really early on Christmas morning to fly to Montana. What a great guy! We opened all of our non-Santa gifts today so we would not be completely overloaded tomorrow morning. The boys got some clothes and lots of toys. Coleman really likes his new big rig and his new tool set to go with the workbench. Spence got a Little People airplane and enjoyed playing with that. We finally have cold weather too!

After opening presents and eating dinner, Coleman helped make brownies to celebrate Jesus' birthday. Yes, we had birthday brownies with a Cars candle for Jesus.

Today's name of Jesus is:

Eternal Life

And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life. 1 John 5:20

How right it seems to stop and ponder these things in the midst of the manger story. Maybe it seems out of place for some, but this is who Jesus is: Life. Eternal Life. What would be special about Christmas if it would have ended there in Bethlehem? Here is a song we've been singing this season at church that I would like to share:

Make my life a Bethlehem, a manger of my heart
Let me hear the angels sing and let the music start
May I fall in simple faith and wonder to my knees
In the manger of my heart let Christ be born in me

(by Pamela Martin and Craig Courtney, Beckenhorst Press)

Good News!

Good News of Great Joy That Will Be For All the People

"And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:8-11

I went to biblegateway.com and this is the verse of the day. I've never thought of "good news of great joy that will be for all the people" as Jesus' name, but that is what He is. He is THE Good News. He brings us great joy. He is for all people. I pray you are finding joy in Him at this moment.

Here are some pictures of the boys from the last few weeks.

Coleman playing at the mall after we visited Santa.

Coleman and Nana making a gingerbread house. That night he thanked God for Nana coming to his house and making a gingerbread house.

It turned cold for a few days, so he was able to wear his Christmas hat and sweater. You'll also notice the sock on his hand. I recently bought some mittens for the poor child.

We got this workbench from an online classified site for free! The first night we had it, Coleman walked into the kitchen and said, "I've been working hard all day Daddy!"

Today we visited family and had a mug swap and chili dinner. It was so much fun! Here are Coleman and Spence with their cousin Sheldon.

Cousin Shelby is holding Spence.

One Year Ago Today

Last year on this day, my dad, 7 week old Spence, and I were sitting in a hospital waiting room as Brian underwent reconstructive knee surgery. He chose to have the surgery over Christmas so he wouldn't have to take extra time off of work and we would have lots of family here to help out with the boys. If not for looking at the pictures, poor Brian would have no recollection of last Christmas. When we put up our tree this year, Brian lamented that we had no tree last year. I told him we did have a tree, although it was quite small. Mom and I went to get it a few days before Christmas and had to get one that we could carry ourselves and load up in the back of my vehicle. Brian laughed when he looked at pictures and said, "I don't remember that at all!" He could only join us at the table for Christmas dinner for about 5 minutes since sitting in a chair was so painful. He was on a lot of pain medication. Thankfully, his mom was here to take care of him. I had my hands full with Spence! Last night we were discussing the events of a year ago, and Brian laughed that he couldn't remember anything about Christmas, but he remembered being in the hospital that first night after the surgery and waking up every hour or so and watching a Breaking Bonaduce marathon on VH1 (reality show about Danny Bonaduce). I think I'm a little offended that he remembers this, but not his loving family being there when he woke up. Oh well, there were lots of drugs involved.

Here is Brian a few days after the surgery. The couch was his home for about 2 1/2 weeks.

So last Christmas was a little rough, but we made it through. I think it helps us appreciate this Christmas even more. We are so blessed that Brian can walk and Spence can sleep through the night! There are so many other blessings that it would take me all night to list them. I pray that you feel God's blessings this Christmas, no matter what your circumstances are. As Christmas day draws nearer and nearer, I want to share this name of Jesus tonight:

Holy One

The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Luke 1:35

The birth of Jesus is such a miracle. No other birth in history compares. No other baby came with a mission such as His. No on else can be called Holy One. I praise God this Christmas because of His amazing gift. No other gift can compare!

Give Me Wisdom!

I must admit that I am very tired today. Isn't it crazy how we run ourselves ragged at this time of year? For the last two nights I've gone shopping after the boys are in bed. Then there's been wrapping presents and trying to clean up before getting into bed. I'm in need of some rest and relaxation! Maybe next Wednesday, after all the presents are unwrapped and Grandma and Grandpa are loving on the boys. Here is today's name of Jesus:

Wisdom of God

...but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 1 Corinthians 1:24

Let me give you a little context for this verse. Paul is talking about how the message of the cross is foolishness for those who are perishing but to us who are being saved it is the power of God (vs. 18). He goes on to say how Jews demanded signs and Greeks looked for wisdom, but what he was preaching was Christ crucified. That is the reason Jesus came to earth, to die for our sins, to save us. The angels were singing praises that first Christmas night. Did they know God's plan? Did they know that 33 years later they would be pleading for a command to go to His rescue and take Him off the cross? Praise God that He did not call to them. He endured the cross because of His love for us. My prayer is that we will all truly worship Him this Christmas.

Spence, The Scavenger of Dropped Food

Today is our 9th Anniversary! We have made so many wonderful memories together. Life is quite different now than it was 9 years ago! But I think it's better than ever. I love you Brian! Every year instead of buying each other gifts, we take a trip. We've been to San Antonio, Chicago, Galveston, Mexican border towns, a cruise to Cozumel, Fredericksburg (a German town in the Texas Hill Country), The Woodlands (just north of Houston), and Southwest Memorial Hospital (Spence was born and Brian had knee surgery, so things were a little crazy to take a nicer trip!). This year we're planning to go to Austin, but probably not until February. We're leaving for Montana next week, then January will be pretty busy too.

The boys are feeling so much better and are getting their appetites back. Last night Spence ate about 1/2 a can of green beans along with the rest of his dinner. When I got him out of his high chair, he walked over to Coleman's place mat, reached up, and grabbed a piece of peach that was left. This morning he did the same thing. He also saw a piece of cereal bar that he had dropped, reached down and grabbed it, stuffed it in his mouth, and got this huge grin on his face. Today at McDonald's he was eyeing all kinds of goodies on the floor, but of course I did not let him eat them. Coleman is back on his Cinnamon Toast Crunch kick, but now he likes it mixed with Life Cereal. I find this a little odd, but to each his own.

If you are new to the blog, please leave me a comment and let me know. If you don't have a Google account all you have to do is leave it as Anonymous, then type your name at the end of your comment. Here is today's name of Jesus:

Good Shepherd

I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. John 10:11

We are referred to as sheep many times in the Bible. This is a perfect analogy to use. Sheep are not bright animals. Without the shepherd, they would be lost, starved, and eaten by wolves. The shepherd leads them to green pastures and protects them from all harm. Jesus is our Good Shepherd. Without Him, we would be lost, spiritually malnourished, and eaten by wolves too! He guides us and protects us. Not only that, but he laid down His life for us. He is the greatest gift we can ever receive.

Hope for a Healthy Christmas!

Happy Birthday Brian! You are a wonderful husband and father. We are so blessed to have you in our lives. I hope you know how grateful we are for all that you do for our family and for just being you. We love you! Amanda, Coleman, and Spence

Coleman and I went to see an allergist today. We are on so many medications now that I made a chart to keep up with it all! Coleman had to have the allergy test where the nurse presses some little knobby things down on his back. He did so well. He's such a big boy now! Hopefully we will be well for Christmas. That's my goal!

If you are new to our blog, during December I'm doing something a little different. Each day I write about a name of Jesus. Here is today's:

The Saviour of the World

And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. 1 John 4:14

At Christmas we focus on the Baby Jesus. We read the passages that tell about His birth and about those that came to worship Him. We sing songs about these events. I really enjoy thinking about these things. There are probably people who don't have a relationship with Jesus that read these passages and sing these songs at Christmas. Do they realize that this tiny baby came to be the Saviour of the world? Even as He was swaddled tightly and resting in that feed trough, His mission was clear: Save the world! God's ways are so unlike ours. Who besides God would have come up with a plan like this? As we celebrate the birth of Baby Jesus, let's remember to celebrate that He is The Saviour of the World.

Bread of Life

I am so excited! My Mom has written today's Jesus Blog. Thanks Mom.

BREAD OF LIFE

I am a lover of bread. Give me several Mary B's yeast rolls and I can be filled. They rise beautifully, they are golden brown on the outside and light and fluffy on the inside. Um-m-m. My mouth is watering. If not for Mary B's, I would have to make the bread myself. It may be pretty and golden brown on the outside, but the inside would be imperfect. First of all, I would not have the purest ingredients, I wouldn't have the perfect mixing technique, I wouldn't have the exact perfect timing, and my oven would not be the exact perfect temperature. The eye may be pleased with the appearance, but the taste buds would not be stimulated to their fullest.

There is no doubt that what I put into my life and how I try to mix it up and plan it is severely lacking. Likewise, Mary B's rolls expire. They are not foolproof. Neither of these give me the nutrients that I need for a healthy life.

In John 6:35, "Jesus declared, I am The Bread of Life. He who comes to me will never go hungry..." Jesus is the all purity and He knows exactly how to mix the things of my life to perfection. He times everything perfectly. He even gives me time in the fire to make me rise according to his recipe. Jesus is my Bread. He gives me complete satisfaction and all the nourishment that I need. Psalms 34:8 says, "Taste and see that the Lord is good."

Thank you so much for sharing with us, Mom. Several days ago I posted some pictures of the boys and had you guess who was who. Here are the answers: Coleman, Spence, Spence, Coleman. Many of you got it right! Good job! (Not sure what's going on with the font today. I'll see if I can fix it later.)

What's Your Desire?

We sent out Christmas cards and gave our blog address, so if you're a new reader I welcome you! This month I'm doing something called The Jesus Blog. Every day of December I'm choosing a name of Jesus and writing a little about it. I usually take the name straight from a Bible verse, but today is a little different. Our choir sang Angels, from the Realms of Glory this morning. One of the lines caught my attention. Here is the name:

Desire of Nations

Sages, leave your contemplations, brighter visions beam afar;
Seek the great Desire of nations, ye have seen the Infant's star:
Come and worship, come and worship, worship Christ, the newborn King!

What a great name! Is He the Desire of our nation? I don't think so. I feel compelled to pray for our nation, that He would be our desire. Please pray with me! I wondered if "Desire of nations" was found anywhere in the Bible. Haggai 2:7 says, "I will shake all nations, and the desired of all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory,' says the Lord Almighty." This could refer to the Messiah. I pray that He will be our Desire this Christmas, and throughout the year.

As I mentioned yesterday, I have been tagged to tell 5 random, little known facts about myself.

1. I love Funyuns (you know the chips that are onion flavored rings) but am embarrassed to buy them because I am not 7, I'm 32. I have recently discovered that Lays Kettle Cooked Maui Onion chips have the same flavor as Funyuns, but with a much more mature look (and name). Therefore I can buy them without shame.
2. My favorite movie is The Parent Trap, 1961 with Hayley Mills. I also like her movies That Darn Cat and Pollyanna.
3. If I buy Keebler Grasshopper cookies, I do not tell anyone in my house. I hide them in the pantry and eat them all in about 24 hours. (I hope Brian's not reading this.)
   
4. I hate math and still count on my fingers to do simple addition.
5. I had a blanket that I slept with until I went off to college. It finally fell apart. When I was little Mom would ask what I was going to do with the blanket when I got married. I would say, "I'll just hide it under the bed until my husband goes to sleep." I still love blankets, and do not like the sheet touching me.
   

I'm supposed to tag several friends. So Jennifer, Theresa, Sheree, and Candice, if you're reading this, it's your turn!

Saturday Night at the Movies

Tonight after dinner I put some blankets and pillows down on the floor and the four of us laid down and watched a movie on the ceiling. Brian brought a projector home from work and hooked it up to his laptop and played Cars. We have a really high, sloped ceiling in our study, so it was perfect. I felt like I was at the IMAX! Coleman could have watched the whole movie without moving, but Spence got a little restless as bedtime approached. We'll try to finish the movie tomorrow night. It was so much fun that I asked Brian if he could bring the projector home more often.

I'm trying to recruit some guest bloggers for The Jesus Blog, but I haven't gotten any answers yet. So we'll see. Until then, I guess you're stuck with me. Here's today's name of Jesus:

Son of David

Those who led the way rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" Luke 18:39

As I typed this verse, I realized I didn't know the context, so I went to Luke 18 and read this section (Luke 18:35-43). The one shouting was a blind beggar. I also wondered why he chose to refer to Jesus as Son of David. My Bible has notes to go with some of the verses, and this verse just happened to have one. The note explained that "the blind man recognized Jesus as the prophesied Messiah." The note goes on to say how ironic this was that a blind man could "see" Jesus for who He really was, while other seeing people just didn't have a clue. We can be so blind sometimes. The good news is that Jesus healed this man because of his faith, the man praised God, and the people who witnessed this praised God too.

This verse also got me thinking about the lineage of Jesus. David was a wonderful man, known as a man after God's own heart. But he was not perfect. His life could have been taken from the script of a soap opera at times. Many in the lineage of Jesus were less than ideal. But God chose them. That tells me that He can use anyone. How amazing.

P.S. - Since no one took my challenge yesterday, I am not going to post the answers yet. I'll wait a few days.

And in addition, I just found out that I have been tagged by my cousin Rhonda to give 5 random facts about myself. I will sleep on it and post them tomorrow.

Play a Game With Me!

Tonight I cannot think of a thing to write about. I thought I would look back at pictures from 1 year ago and share one with you. Then I decided it might be fun to post pictures of both the boys at 12 to 13 months old and see if you can guess who is who! I think they look a lot alike, but this is the test. Can you tell them apart? Let's see.

Baby #1: I am obviously not happy, but who am I?


Baby #2: Still not happy! Or am I a different child?

Baby #3: Am I the first or second Pikkula boy?

Baby #4: Do you know my name?

Have fun with my little game. I'll give you the answers tomorrow.

Here is the name of Jesus I've chosen for today:

Son of the Most High

He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David... Luke 1:32

These words were spoken by the angel Gabriel to Mary. Can you imagine how she felt being visited by an angel and given this news? She was to have a baby and He was not going to be an ordinary baby, but One who would have a throne. If you read Luke 1:26-38, you see that Gabriel gave her a lot of information. Do you think she understood it all? Probably not. She didn't need to understand it all though, she just needed to be willing to let God use her, and she was. She said, "I am the Lord's servant." If only I would answer that in every situation. He is the Son of the Most High, so whatever He says, my answer should be, "I am the Lord's servant."

Today's Headline: Lady Passes Out in Bakery

Coleman's birthday is less than a month away, so I've started thinking about his party. Up until now, I've made all the boys' birthday cakes. This is Coleman's first year having a party with his friends, so I thought I would have a professional do the job. Today I stopped at a few bakeries to inquire about a fire truck-shaped birthday cake. I had heard wonderful things about the first bakery I went to. I knew it was going to be pricey, but nothing could have prepared me. Are you sitting down? For a fire truck-shaped cake to feed 15 to 20 people they charge $102. He's not getting married, he's turning 3!!! I politely said thank you and promptly left. I had been to the next bakery on my list before. They made little bassinet-shaped cookies with my due date written in icing in March of 2006. That was how we told our parents we were expecting. I figured if they were charging $50 for this cake, I should probably jump on that. They charge $28 for the fire truck cake. Now that I'm willing to pay for a 3 year old's birthday cake.

I hope you are enjoying the Jesus blog this month. I am trying to keep my focus on Him and remember that He is the:

Author and Perfecter of Our Faith

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2

How many of our problems would be solved if we just fixed our eyes on Him? Why do we ever look away? I am so guilty of looking away. Thankfully, He has never looked away from us, even though it meant enduring the cross. May our faith be perfected during this glorious time of year.

God With Us

Two sick boys. Too wiped out to think. Mom is here to help out since Brian had to go out of town. Tonight when she was putting Coleman to bed, she made the comment that he was going to have to get a bigger bed for all his stuffed animals. He said, "Maybe my bed will grow." That's good thinking! And it would be quite cheaper than buying a new bed.

Today's name of Jesus is:

Immanuel

"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel - which means, "God with us." Matthew 1:23

I don't really think of meanings of names very often. I know that my name means "worthy of love." When we were trying to decide on names for the boys we looked at all the meanings too. Coleman means "charcoal burner" and Spencer means "dispenser, keeper." We must have just really liked the names, because the meanings are less than great. The name Immanuel means "God with us." I don't think it gets any better than that. When Jesus was born, God truly came down as a man to live among men. How amazing. What could be better this Christmas season than knowing that God is with us?

Will the Doctor Really See Us Now?

It's funny how stressed we make ourselves at this time of the year. You should see the to do list that's sitting on my desk. Actually, you probably have your own list that's just as long. Then there are all the unexpected things you have to do that weren't even on your list. Like taking Spence to the doctor. We had a 10:50 appointment, but saw the doctor at 11:45. I'm so thankful that we can go to the doctor though and get needed medicine that I won't even complain about that ridiculous (oops, did I say that) wait. My cousin Rhonda has taken several trips to Nicaragua and tells us how she packs her suitcase with over-the-counter medicine, which is a rare treat for the people. They can't just hop in the SUV and go to the doctor whenever they need to. We are truly blessed. Back to Spence, he does have an ear infection. Poor thing feels miserable. He'll be walking along, fall down, and just lay over on the floor and almost fall asleep.

On a happier note, we went to see Santa at the mall this morning! Actually, it wasn't a very happy note. Spence cried and Coleman looked very concerned. Why do we try to force our kids to sit on some big, white-bearded stranger's lap? The lady finally got a good picture when Spence decided to look at Santa. In that picture, you can't tell that he's crying. Coleman asked for a grader (a construction vehicle for those of you with girls) and a crane. As we were driving away from the mall Coleman asked, "Where are Santa's reindeer?" Good question. I told him Santa probably parked them out back. Coleman said he would ask Santa when we go back and see him tomorrow. "Tomorrow? Every boy and girl only gets to sit on Santa's lap once," I said. He was fine with that.

At naptime Coleman and I were looking at a book that had a picture of a snowflake. I told him that we may see snow when we go to Montana. He said, "I'm going to hold my hand out and catch a snowflake like M&Ms." That sounds delicious. So Grandma and Grandpa, have snow and M&Ms waiting for us!

Today's name of Jesus is:

I Am

"I tell you the truth, " Jesus answered, "before Abraham was born, I am!" John 8:58

I Am does not sound like a name. It sounds like an incomplete sentence. I am what? I am busy. I am tired. I am in need of a vacation. But when you really stop and think about it, it is the perfect name for Jesus. I love that dialogue between God and Moses in Exodus 3 where Moses asks who he is to say sent him. God replies, "Tell them I Am has sent me to you." It sounds like a pretty confusing conversation. I can just see Moses scratching his head. But I think he eventually got it. I get it too. If we need peace, He says, "I Am your peace." If we need healing, He says, "I Am your healer." If we need forgiveness, He says, "I Am the One who forgives." He is everything we need.

Learning the Christmas Story Takes Time

This morning I decided to tell Coleman part of the Christmas story. I told him about how the angel came to visit Mary and told her she would have a baby and would name the baby Jesus. At lunch, I asked Coleman if he remembered the story I had told him this morning. He said they went into outer space. Then he told me about some bad guys who broke a glass. He asked, "Did you like my story Mommy?" I loved it! A few minutes later he did tell me that the angel said, "You're gonna have a baby. JESUS!!!" He sounded so excited when he said it! He may not have all the details in order, but he knows who it's about.

Yesterday in Sunday School we were talking about how our children are giving us a renewed love of Christmas. It is so exciting to see them enjoying this time of year. When I use simple phrases to explain how Jesus was born and how God loves us, it makes it new for me. Sometimes we forget to stop and listen to the story and enjoy all the details.

I chose today's name of Jesus because of Coleman's story of everyone at the stable that first Christmas going into outer space. If He wanted to, He could have because He's:

Mighty God

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

He is Mighty God. Better than any super hero we could conjure up. He reigns over Heaven and Earth. He created it all. What a Mighty God we serve!

Long Lost Hotwheels and Crunchy Milk

What do you get when your refrigerator quits working? Long lost Hotwheels and crunchy milk. Yesterday morning we noticed that the milk was not quite as cold as it should have been. Throughout the day, the contents of the refrigerator got warmer and warmer. Brian spent about 3 hours online and in the fridge trying to diagnose the problem. He was pretty sure he knew what was wrong, and about 5:15 called to consult a repairman. He instructed Brian to use a hairdryer to defrost the whateveritwas. That seemed to do the trick. The repairman said that the hairdryer trick could possibly fix the problem, but if not to call him back. So far so good. While the fridge was moved out from the wall, 3 long lost Hotwheels were recovered. Coleman looked at them and said, "New cars!!!"

This morning Coleman wanted cereal with milk. We told him there was no milk, but he insisted on having Daddy cereal with milk. Brian remembered that we had some powdered milk and mixed some of that up and poured it on Coleman's cereal. Coleman took a few bites and then wasn't eating the cereal. When Brian asked him why, Coleman said, "I don't like that crunchy milk." Apparently the powder hadn't dissolved completely.

This is the second Sunday of Advent. The peace candle has been lit. So this is the name of Jesus I've chosen:

Prince of Peace

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

There are several names in there, and they are all great. But there's something about Prince of Peace. Maybe because we live in a non-peaceful world. There is crime, violence, and war all around us. To know that Jesus is our Prince of Peace is very comforting. We can have peace even in the darkest of circumstances, but only through Jesus. I pray that you are finding peace in Him today.

Oh Brother...

It has started. I thought I had more time. I didn't think they would begin at such young ages. The other day I had to run into Wal-Mart to pick up a few things, so I sat Spence in the seat of the shopping cart and put Coleman in the basket. He was sitting so nicely. Then Spence started looking back and messing with him, touching him. Coleman said in that all too familiar whiny-complaining-about-my-brother-bothering-me voice, "HE'S TOUCHING ME! STOP!" I could not believe I was already having to deal with this. He's not even three yet! There are a lot of things Coleman does that I think, "Wow, I thought this wouldn't happen until later." Either I've been misguided or Coleman is just way advanced. In the last few weeks he's learned how to work the safety doorknob covers and the refrigerator latch. Now he can get out of his room, raid the pantry, and leave the refrigerator door half-opened. At least he's old enough to know right from wrong now, so he'll have consequences for getting into stuff he shouldn't.

Coleman is growing up so fast. Last night he had his first sleepover. Some friends that used to go to our church who have moved away came to our Sunday School class Christmas party. Then they stayed over at our house. Their little boy Keller is just 2 months older than Coleman. You might remember that we went to their house for Keller's birthday last month and Coleman puked in the bounce house. Yeah, they still socialize with us, even after that. I forgot to ask if they got their deposit back. Anyway, we made a pallet on the floor by Coleman's bed for Keller. We read stories and said prayers. They were so cute together. I really didn't think it would work out, but they made it all night! This morning about 7:00 we could hear them talking. They stayed in bed and talked for about 45 minutes! Keller told Coleman all about his broken tooth, and Coleman explained how he could get a tool and fix it. Seven o'clock came too quickly for the four adults who stayed up until 1:30. Brian said it was like we were in college. Pretty close, except in college we didn't have three little boys rarin' to go at 7:45!

I wish I had a name of Jesus to go with today's stories, but I don't. So here's my choice for today:

Our Great God and Savior

...while we wait for the blessed hope - the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. Titus 2:13

Jesus, our great God and Savior. Why does He love me so much? Why does He give me a blessed hope? Why did He give up His life to save mine? He must love me more than I can fathom, because it sure isn't that I deserved any of that. That's the miracle of it though, no one deserves it. He just loves us.

The Adventures of Super Angel

Today, on The Adventures of Super Angel, Super Angel knocks down everyone at the stable in Bethlehem. Then she proclaims, "Time to wake up!" The shepherd, animals, Wise Men, Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus all get up. Then the angel sings "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands," pointing to each person saying, "and him, and him, and him..." Exhausted from this angelic concert, everyone lays face down and goes to sleep. Tune in next week for more adventures of Super Angel.

It's not recorded in scripture, but maybe the angels did sing "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands." It would have been appropriate. We do know that they praised God and said,

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests."

The name of Jesus I've chosen for today is:

Hope of Glory

To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27

It's no mystery anymore! Christ is our hope. And this hope does not disappoint (Romans 5:5). What a glorious thought during this season. Hope. Not wishes or maybes. I may have a hard time feeling the Christmas spirit today because it is supposed to be 80 degrees. But I will focus on the Hope of Glory, and know that He is what Christmas is about.

Back to the 80 degree temperatures, I'd like to share some things with those of you who are unfamiliar with winter in South Texas.

• Yesterday in Wal-Mart I saw a gift set of matching fuzzy slippers and flip flops.
• My kids think the only reason you close the door is to keep mosquitoes out. Yes, there are still a few mosquitoes flying around.
• You see Christmas sweaters in all the stores, and you buy them, but you can't wear them! Next year I'm seriously looking into Christmas tank tops for the boys.
  

Which Way to the Big Green Monkey?

We have two different routes that we can take to get from our house to church. We go on the freeway on Sundays, but on Wednesday mornings we take a less congested road. Yesterday morning we turned out of our neighborhood and onto the highway and Coleman starting talking about how we wouldn't see the big green monkey. After a moment of confusion, I realized he was saying that we were not going to see the big green monkey because we were going the other way. You're probably wondering what the big green monkey is, right? You know how car dealerships like to put large, outrageous inflatables on the tops of their buildings? A Kia dealership that we see on the freeway on the way to church has a humongous green gorilla sitting atop it. He loves to point it out. Even more so than the Santa on the Jeep dealership across the road. I wonder what made him think of that monkey?

I have a few pictures to share from this week.

Monday afternoon we went to the park. Spence had a great time playing in the sand.

I found a wooden nativity set for the boys to play with. I thought we might have fun acting out the Christmas story. So far, Coleman has had Baby Jesus crash into the star and has driven the angel around in the back of a Hummer. We'll work on it.

And now today's name of Jesus:

Way

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me..." John 14:6

There may be more than one way to get to church, but there's only one Way to God. I rejoice this season, as we celebrate God sending the Way to us as a baby born in Bethlehem.

The Answer Is At the Door

So, it's almost 3:00 and I haven't decided what to do for The Jesus Blog today. I'm sitting here looking at my list of names of Jesus that I printed out when I began this. Which one seems to jump out at me today? Oh, someone's at the door. Just a moment...

UPS just delivered a package. I think I know which name of Jesus I'll use today.

Deliverer

And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: "The deliverer will come from Zion; He will turn godlessness away from Jacob..." Romans 11:26

I love when a package or card is delivered to my house. It makes me feel special, like someone thought about me or a family member and sent something to let us know we're loved. Of course, sometimes it's just the latest thing Brian's won off of Ebay. That's exciting too though! One of my favorite things about Christmas is all the cards that come in the mail. I really enjoy the ones that send a picture or a letter about all that's been going on in their lives' for the past year.

Jesus Christ is our Deliverer. I love the song "Mary Did You Know?" and there's a line that's really appropriate to mention here:

Did you know that your Baby Boy has come to make you new?
This Child that you delivered will soon deliver you.

That about says it all. It makes me feel special that God cared enough to send Jesus, my Deliverer. I know I'm loved. I have to tell you, I really was sitting here at the computer typing that first paragraph, not knowing which name I was going to write about, when the UPS truck left a package on my doorstep.

I have good news to report! Weeks back I asked for everyone to pray for 3 year old Libby, who was having heart surgery. She was finally released from the hospital and able to go home to Dallas. I know her family is just overjoyed. I'm sure they will have an extra-Merry Christmas this year. Thanks for your prayers.

Tidbits and Bits of Vegetables

Lamb of God

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" John 1:29



I recently finished a Bible study about the Old Testament Tabernacle. I am so glad I did not live back then! I just can't imagine all of the animal sacrifice that had to be done. As we studied, I would think of the poor, innocent animals dying for people's sins. I don't think I could have watched. Jesus is an innocent Lamb that died for my sins. Unlike animal sacrifice that had to be done over and over, Jesus died once and for all humanity. I don't claim to understand God's ways, but I thank Him for His love, His mercy, His sacrifice. And I must add, He's the Risen Lamb of God!

This week, our gym is closed for renovations. The facility can't be older than 7 or 8 years. But I'm sure the new granite staircase, plasma TVs, and wallcoverings will speed up my weight loss. I'll let you know! (If you couldn't hear it, there was a hint of sarcasm in that statement.) I enjoy going to work out and having a fun, safe place to leave the boys (the gym has a wonderful childcare center). But one of the highlights of going to the gym is that I get to take a shower in peace! I can take my time, get dressed, put on makeup, and fix my hair without any interruptions. That's what I'll miss the most. So I'll warn you: Don't stop by our house this week. I may stink!

If you did stop by our house today, you would have seen Spence walking around with a green bean. I was sitting on the couch snapping green beans when he came by and took one. I watched him to make sure he wouldn't try to eat it, and he didn't. He just carried it with him all over the house! Eventually Maestro realized Spence was carrying around food and decided he would try to get it. It was Baby vs. Dog in the fight for the green bean. Spence held on tight, but Maestro was able to bite off a small piece. I guess Spence lost interest and dropped it somewhere. I haven't seen it in a while.

And, not that it's really a contest, but we have a winner! We received our first Christmas card today. It is an adorable picture of my friend Candice's little boy. How sweet! Thanks Candice!

Day Two of The Jesus Blog

Light of the World

When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." John 8:12

Day two of The Jesus Blog. We live in such a dark world. There is godlessness, hatred, greed, and all kinds of evil around us. It can be downright depressing. Our only hope is Jesus. He is the light of the world! If we know Him and follow Him, we never have to walk in darkness again. He lives in us, and wants to shine His light through us. Did the song "This Little Light of Mine" just pop into your head too? I pray that we would shine for Him this Christmas season wherever we go. I'm gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!

Now I have a problem I would like to share with you all. I think I have a sickness. I don't even know how to begin giving this sickness a name. It's too complicated. Here's the problem though. I have this need to capture everything the boys do on camera. That's not so bad in itself. But I want these pictures and videos to be perfect. I imagine them being dressed perfectly, hair nice and neat, doing the cute act on cue, and oh yes, all the toys in the background are picked up. I think, "Oh, look what Coleman is doing! I need to get the camera and record that. But no! He's wearing a t-shirt and diaper, there's chocolate on his face, his cars and Brian's and my shoes are all over the floor. So just forget it!" I need to get real!!! I have to remind myself that the boys are little, and they aren't going to pose nicely or always cooperate fully. And that's hard for someone with my sickness! I'm trying to change. It's pretty funny that the picture we chose to use for our Christmas card was one that Brian just happened to snap between poses. Maybe that should tell me that I need to stop trying to mold them into something they aren't and just let them be. Nah, that's too deep for today.

The Jesus Blog

A friend of mine wrote on her blog about a Christmas tradition that she came across and loved so much that she is starting this year. It is called The Jesus Tree. You choose 25 names of Jesus, write them on ornaments, and starting on December 1st, hang one on the tree every day up to Christmas. Each day when you hang the ornament, you read the corresponding scripture and talk about it. I thought I was a little behind to try to get all this together for this year, so instead I decided to do The Jesus Blog. I went to a website that gives 100 names of Jesus and chose 25. Each day up to Christmas I will be sharing with you a name of Jesus and a scripture. I hope that you will be blessed! We serve an amazing God, who gave His Only Son for sinners such as us. I hope that this will become a standing tradition with my family. I am so looking forward to daily exploring a different name of Jesus. Thank you, Jennifer, for sharing this idea. And next year, hopefully I will have a Jesus tree in my home also.

Here is today's name of Jesus.

Firstborn Over All Creation

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. Col. 1:15

At Christmas we celebrate His birth, but we must remember that He has always been! That's one of those thoughts that makes my small mind spin. Jesus willingly stepped away from His Father in Heaven to come live among us on this sinful earth. Thank you Jesus for Your sacrifice.

When You Eat Off the Floor, Sometimes You Get a Hair

Last night Brian suggested a mini date. We ate dinner at home, put the boys to bed, then had one of the neighborhood girls come over to stay with them. We went to the trendy Town Square, walked around, and had Starbucks. Our main purpose, besides getting out of the house without the kids, was to scope out the perfect spot to take Christmas pictures. It was nice to be able to do this without the boys, since we didn't want to use up any of their limited attention span searching for a spot to take pictures. We needed somewhere festive to get a good picture for our Christmas card this year. Town Square just lit up this week, so the decorations, the 40 foot Christmas tree, and the twinkling white lights seemed to be the perfect backdrop. We found several great spots.

This afternoon, although it was 80 degrees, I dressed the boys in their Christmas sweaters and we headed out. Coleman was promised Ben & Jerry's ice cream if he cooperated. Brian took a lot of pictures. Here are some of the losers:

You may not be able to tell, but Coleman is about to head-butt Spence. You also can't see the two police officers standing a few feet away laughing at this. This picture obviously does not capture the spirit of Christmas.

Here, Coleman was instructed to give Spence a hug, but it looks more like a choke hold. Either way, again, not what we were looking for.

I of course won't be posting the winning picture. I don't want to spoil our Christmas card!


Ah finally, the prize. A "cookie cookie sundae" topped with hot fudge and M&Ms from Ben & Jerry's. Yummmmmm. Here's where you find out what prompted the title of this post. Coleman was trying to take a bite when he dropped about half a cookie. He started freaking out, and before we could stop him, he picked the fudge smothered cookie off the floor and stuffed it in his mouth. A few seconds later he pulled a hair out of his mouth and said, rather disgusted, "Oohhh, there's a hair." So Mommy said, "When you eat off the floor, sometimes you get a hair." That's the harsh reality.