More December Developments

Maggie had her last Winter Recital with New Attitude dance (she's decided she doesn't want to do Hip Hop again in the fall). My sweet friend, Jacquel, has been a fierce supporter of our girl and loves to attend and cheer her on whenever she can! 

These miniature gingerbread houses were another favorite Advent Calendar activity. Again, I'm pretty sure more of the candy is consumed than actually placed on the houses, but that's to be expected I guess! 

This year, I tried my "hand" at some homemade gifts (the front of the bookmarks had pictures of either mountains or books. I really enjoyed creating some virtual experiences to connect us each month January-April as well which is the gift that I emailed everyone on Christmas day. It's my hope that these precious family members always know how deeply they are loved and how truly unique and cherished they are (not only by me, but also their Creator too). I hope they always remember their identity is never in what they do, but in who they are as someone made in the image of God. They are valued....chosen...enjoyed. 

Here's a picture of two sweet friends that speak life into me-Rachel and Janelle! Janelle is my pastor's wife and Rachel and I met through Saturated (she was hosting it at her house). It is a true treat to get to meet up with them for coffee, conversation, and connection that builds up my spirit!

Riley got to wear "festive Christmas clothes" to his band concert at Sullivan, so he chose to dress up like a giant tree wearing one of Chris' many costumes! He did a great job and we had a lot of fun eating out with Mom and Dad afterwards and playing Music Bingo at Hickory Tavern. 

I love every bit of this joyful girl who loves to make others smile and feel good! She is a loyal friend and she loves unconditionally (just like her Father). 

 

The Lowry's Christmas parade is like no other parade you've ever seen. Horses, tractors, candy, and umbrellas make this an event you won't soon forget. This year we got to experience it with the Collins clan and it was truly memorable! 

Maggie decided to make her very own Music Bingo for all of us to play as a family!! What a creative child I have! Riley loved that he won! 

Christmas Eve Eve was with Vineyard this year. I'm thankful for Chris' presence in this service. There is just something comforting about a candlelight service and a reminder of a Savior who came from humble beginnings to connect with broken people and offer hope and peace that lasts forever. 

We had our annual Asian meal Christmas Eve. This time we went to Mr. Tokyo for all you can eat sushi. Riley was in hog heaven (or should I say fish heaven...LOL!). 

Just a few more precious pics of my favorite gifts in the whole wide world!! 

Isn't this sweet? This is the most hand-holding dog I've ever known! She absolutely loves it! 

"Santa" came with some giant presents this year. Maggie got a pink beanbag chair for her room and a pedicure set and Riley got pieces for a PC to build himself. 

Chris did a great job on gifts as well. I was thrilled with the Les Miserables date night tickets, clothes, purse, and earrings made from recycled glass jars. 

Grandmama/Mom is so good to us in making us a candy cane each year for our Christmas morning breakfast. We pair it with sausage balls and coffee and enjoy our Yule Log on the TV. 

Just a few more gifts and a delicious prime rib Christmas dinner! YUM! 

We got to play JackBox TV with the fam across the country and we fit in a few card games around the table with just our little crew too. 

Check out the custom shoes Edward picked out for me this year! And Maggie loves molding, mixing, and creating! 

Jacquel is the Queen of Self-Care and for her Christmas gift to me, she took me to a Float Spa in Charlotte. We got to do an oxygen bar afterwards while sipping on tea and then we ate a delicious philly steak at a restaurant across the street. I'm so thankful for friends like her that get me to experience new things! 

This year we headed to Indiana after Christmas and got to spend New Year's Eve with everyone. I created some activity balloons to pop each hour as our countdown. The kids were good sports about it! 

One of our favorite traditions is to play Left Right Center each year and this time Lucy took home the jackpot! Chris' family got to watch my family's Lip Sync Battle produced each year by my brother. The performances this year were stellar! So many cool costumes, effects, and songs! 

I love that we can cut up with family and be silly! It sure does make the visits enjoyable! 

I gotta give a shout out to my super talented and handsome Riley Roo! He built this computer from scratch with very little assistance and now added it to his collection of gaming devices in the basement. I'm proud of how he sets a goal, works toward it, and perseveres to the end. This is a trait that I know will serve him well in the years to come. He is also a loyal friend who loves to game with his guys. It's been a joy to watch him grow!