'Tis the season

Hello all! This last week was pretty good!

On Friday we went to see the lights at the botanical garden, here in Norfolk. It was awesome because we took the top off of Matt's Jeep and went through it listening to Christmas music. There were a lot of trees that you drive between, and they had decorated those w/ lights, which were hanging down. We were able to really see the lights above us. Way cool!After that we took the boys to "Toys 'R Us" to pick out toys for two other kids, that are less fortunate. We then took those toys to the mall, just across the parking lot to "Stuff the Bus" w/ Z-104, the local radio station. Last year they stuffed 10 buses, totally shooting their goal, of about 4 buses, out of the water. When we got down there, they finished filling 11 buses!

(A shot of the filled buses, it goes down pretty far)

(The boys helped to fill bus # 12)
(My munchkins next to one of the filled buses)

It was neat because at least half of those buses were filled w/ bikes! And not just little bikes, but there were some bigger ones too! I have never seen so many toys to be given away, in one place. It was so nice to see the "Spirit of Christmas" being showed by so many people. I mean, every year there is the Salvation Army, the Armed Forces, Toys for Tots, and many other organizations collecting for people and families. But I have never seen the end product of it. Of course it wasn't the end of the bus thing, but I mean, there was a lot to look at already! I guess I'm just trying to say that it was really nice to watch my nephews be apart of something bigger than all of us!

Remember the "reason for the season" you guys! I just want you all to know that I am so grateful for our Savior, Jesus Christ! For his ultimate sacrfice, and for opening the doors to eternal life. I'm so excited for this time of year, to celebrate w/ the rest of the world, the birth of our elder brother, Jesus Christ. It's great that no matter what you believe in, Christmas time is a time that we can all at least attempt to be unified in sharing love to everyone. Many do it in forms of service to the needy, or in giving to others, or just in actually being "home" for the holidays! Wherever you are this holiday season, be sure to let your family know how much you love them and be sure to thank the Lord for the many blessings you and your family has received this and every year! I love you all and wish the a most wonderous and joyous Christmas! Be strong, be happy, and find the joy in your life!

(Christmas 2007 in Hawaii)