Clay Aiken

Oh my goodness! I got to meet Clay Aiken! It was absolutely incredible. My mom and I attended a concert locally, one in Columbia and one in Charlotte. It was a fantastic and enjoyable experience. What a voice he has! His Christmas music is so worshipful I almost felt like I was at church. When I met him, he autographed a piece of paper for K that says "K - Use your voice. Clay Aiken". We used the autograph, the picture of Clay and I (seen above), and some pictures of K and A to make a nine picture collage that now hangs in K's bedroom. She's not old enough to appreciate it yet, but one day she will.

Visits with Santa

Both of the girls were fortunate enough to have special chances to meet Santa this year.

At A's school we attended a breakfast with Santa. While waiting her turn to sit on his lap, she made some beautiful crafts, got her face painted (an angel), and ate some Chick-Fil-A biscuits. Soon, it was her chance to see Santa and she was thrilled to tell him that she wants a doll and a dollhouse for Christmas this year. I think she's been a good girl so we'll see what happens on Christmas morning.

K and A both attended a FOCUS party where Santa was in attendance. He really took the time to greet each child individually. While K had screamed last year at the sight of Santa, this year she batted her eyelashes at him and smiled from ear to ear. I relayed her Christmas wishes to Santa and she had a lovely picture made (also still to come). We enjoyed spending time with the children there, doing crafts, playing games and listening to pretty music.

Thanksgiving

Okay, so we're almost to Christmas but I wanted everyone to know we didn't forget Thanksgiving. I have some pictures from our first Thanksgiving as a family (without extended family). It was quite a change, but nice and relaxing.

A is thankful for the world.
K is thankful for her new chair so she can sit at the table with the family.
Dad is thankful for his family.
I am thankful for the many blessings in our life and looking forward to a new year, a new home, and sharing with others.