Blessed

Each year at Christmas we work hard to remind ourselves just how lucky we are. This year especially, in light of the economy, and eventhough Dan was one of thousands to lose his job just days before Christmas, we were reminded yet again, just how truly blessed we are...We're all healthy and happy and we have a beautiful home and many excesses and are lucky enough to live in America...We take none of it for granted because we are truly thankful.

Thank you Santa!!!

Katie's Rose Petal Cottage set

Katie and her dad enjoy the Elmo Live doll

Megan shows off her first cell phone

Lauren gets her own IPOD and docking station

Lauren's 6th Birthday

Our middle child celebrated her 6th birthday on 12/16...this amazing daughter of ours is so independent, smart, optomistic, beautiful and strong. So much so, that I often stare at her with wonder and awe.

Highlights of this special day: decorating cupcakes for school, Barbie cruise ship, Santa cake and her very own video camera!!

Happy birthday sweet Lauren!!

Nebraska Chocolate Balls

Made only once a year, Nebraska Chocolate Balls are one of my many fond holiday memories from childhood. Each year my aunt, mom and I would bake dozens of different types of cookies to box up and give as gifts to friends and family. Of all the cookies, these were the most labor intensive (reason enough for why they were only made once a year), but they are oh so yummy!!

Recipe:

1 lb Powdered Sugar

2 Cups Chunky Peanut Butter

1 Stick Margarine

3 1/2 Cups Rice Krispies

Mix all ingredients thoroughly with fingers and roll into walnut sized balls. Chill overnight.

In a double boiler, melt a 12 oz. package of chocolate chips, along with a small amount of cooking wax to ensure hardening and glossy finish to the chocolate. Dip each ball into the chocolate mixture and then drop onto a cookie sheet to cool and harden.

2008 Hyatt Girl's Holiday Photo Shoot

Warmest Wishes for a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!