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Christmasing the House

So, it is now December 18 and we're just posting pictures about putting up Christmas decorations. We actually did this long ago (i.e., the day after Thanksgiving), but we're just now getting around to posting the pictures. Dem and I enjoy Christmas, but we aren't crafty, so there's a limited amount of decorating that goes on. It largely consists of the tree,

stockings, and a few Santa Claus ornaments here and there. One thing we have added recently is a manger scene, which Elliot dearly loves and puts together himself.

This year, Elliot decided he was going to remove the baby Jesus from the manger and cradle him as he (Elliot) slept. It was a precious scene from our precious little boy.

This year we will spend Christmas in Texas with Demaree's family. In fact, Dem and Elliot are already there. They went early (we were originally planning on leaving the December 22) because Demaree's grandmother Ola passed away after a long decline. We wish her the best in heaven and cannot wait to see her again, this time with a glorified body.

Elliot's Fourth Birthday

Yep, that's right all: Elliot turned four. It's truly incredible how times flies. It seem like a few weeks ago we were at Elliot's birth and took him home to begin our family. What a beautiful addition he is, full of life and humor and charisma. We thank God for him every day.

And in celebration of his birthday, we went to Fatcats, ate some cake and pizza, and bowled for a couple hours. Kid loves bowling, man. Not sure where he got it, but he begs to go every time we pass a bowling alley. Oh, and as you will see by and by, he loves angry birds. In all, Elliot had many of his friends to the party. Thanks to all those who came and made Elliot's fourth a great experience.

Thanksgiving

Ah, Thanksgiving. 7000 calories and a whole bunch of football. What could be better? Oh, having Erin, Lily, Meri, and Renee over, that's what. After intaking unheavenly amounts of foodstuffs and watching football, we moved on to playing Taboo (Dem and I won) and "Captain America." A great day with great friends it was; and what a blessing it is to have friends and family nearby.

And here are some pictures of the food.

And then there were some desserts (pumpkin chocolate bread pudding and pumpkin cranberry cheesecake and chocolate pie) not pictured. Mmm, so good.

Halloween

Halloween isn't an important holiday for Dem and me. We don't really dig dressing up in costumes or eating candy, especially candy corn. But Halloween is a big deal to Elliot. He loves dressing up, going to houses and collecting candy. Oddly, however, he doesn't really like the candy he gathers.

So, this year Elliot chose a Spider Man costume.

He ended up trick or treating with Marie and Lilly. The kids were so stoked to be out they ran from house to house. Elliot even had Spider Man boots which would light up whenever he took a step. So, when he would run there was this little trail of light emanating from his feet. It was super cute. Best part of the night: Elliot only ate an apple someone gave him; he didn't want any of the candy. What a good boy.

Susannah

Dem recently auditioned for the spring opera, Susannah, by Carlisle Floyd. She got the mezzo role of Mrs. McLean. She's also been signing quite a lot with the university quartet, which is her TA job. The quartet sings are university fundraisers and other promotional events. As always, Elliot and I are proud of Demaree.