Decorating the Christmas Tree

 Sam wanted to hook everything.  Here he is digging in the  bag of hooks.

 Whoa!  Standing on the ottoman to decorate the tree.

 Admiring his handiwork:)

Kids' tree done!  What a hot mess;)  They are excited to show Daddy when he gets home!

Jack's Trait Tag

Jack, with his Trait Tag for Perseverance.

Proud Mama, proud Brother, proud Daddy (not pictured:(), and Jack.

Jack's school honors one child a week from each grade level for an admirable character trait. Jack was this week's honoree. I received a note home last week telling me that he was going to be recognized, but we had to keep it a secret! Sammy and I got to attend the chapel service conducted by first graders (!)--what a treat! Jack jumped out of his chair and ran up to the stage so fast that I barely got any pics or video. Luckily, the nice lady next to me offered to take some for us. So proud of you, Jack!

After I texted Rick the pictures, he texted back, "Proud. What was the tag?"

Me: Perseverance

Rick: Is that like stubborn-ness?

Me: Yes.

Me: Using his power for good instead of evil. Again, very proud.

Ode to a Gecko

Little lizard, out in nature

you are my little friend

I like to see you on my deck

or on a leaf around the bend

my kids think you are very cool

They want to watch you move

quickly darting to and fro

until you find a groove

but when you come inside my house

the pleasantries will end

little lizard, green gecko

INSIDE you are not my friend!