Christmas Decorations 2008

The past day has been quite sad, with the passing of Joe's dad. He was a dear man, and Joe and I both loved him deeply. Joe's dad has been sick for many years, and he suffered a lot over those years. I know he is in a better place now...and will be looking down on us. :-) I am home from work today to be here for Joe. He is having a rough go at it, as would anyone losing their loved one. He has many good memories of his childhood with his family. I am enjoying chatting with him as he reminisces.

When I left work early yesterday, my compassionate students would not let me leave until they made cards for Joe! Each "center" worked hard composing and decorating...It was so cute. I put them on his dresser and when he got home, he was greeted by the well wishes! He was very touched!!! I included a picture below of the cards! :-)

Joe and I have been decorating the x-mas tree this morning. I have also decorated around the house...As usual, I had to document!

Joe's cards from the 4th graders!

Our Advent "House!" Joe is in charge of the odds and I am doing the evens. Each day we have put a little gift or note for the other behind the little door. The little boxes are so tiny, we usually write a little poem or note and send the person around the house on a little scavenger hunt to find their gift!!! I get to open all the odds and Joe opens the evens! We just started this tradition this year, as we just got the "house!" It has been a fun and creative way to count down to Christmas!

Tree...Joe put it up a few days ago! We added ornaments today!

I LOVE this holiday angel! It matches all the colors in our house. I just love the metal/wood medium she used to create it! I purchased this from Stephanie Grimes (a parent from school, friend, and talented artist).

Dining room table... don't have my holiday decorative plates out yet though!!!