Santa -- To be, or not to be.

So, I realize I've been averaging about 2 blogs a month.... sorry about that. Life's busy as usual. The kids are doing awesome. They're getting excited for Christmas morning and Jesus' Birthday Celebration. Also, they're excited that Antys (Santa) is going to be bringing them presents (although he scared them when they went to tell him what they wanted). Yes, we are celebrating CHRIST on Christmas and Santa will be a part of that celebration. We've heard a few good arguments about why we should and should not be doing this... but overall-- they're our kids, and we do not believe that Santa will take away from God's glory and perfect gift to us in Jesus. Some people believe that Jesus and Santa are exclusive... either give the day to Jesus by celebrating his birth, or give it to Santa-- we feel that Santa adds to our celebration of Jesus.

For those who are still skeptical in our plan, the real story or legend of St. Nick can be found at this website. http://www.reasonfortheseason.com/realsanta.html By "Santa" delivering gifts to our children we are merely carrying on the tradition of St. Nick, participating in gift exchanges (which most Christians do) and celebrating by carrying on the tradition of giving without expecting to receive. When the kids are older, we'll explain the story of St. Nick... and discuss how much more of a gift that Jesus has given us. Still skeptical-- enjoy celebrating Christmas the way you would like... and we'll do the same ;)

Speaking of Santa. MacKenzie's (Mark's girlfriend) uncle dresses up each year as Santa and goes to a Children's hospital delivering many toys that they're extended family has donated money to purchase. What an awesome family tradition. Yea Mangus family... we love you!

Well, I'm off my soap box for the day. Need to use it to do about 20 loads of laundry before the big weekend. Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas.

Matthew 1:21
"She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins."

Long Time, No Blog

Well, it's been awhile-- and I'm starting to receive complaints about my lack of blogging. Who knew anyone actually read this thing. :) I'll try to provide updates to live over the next week... seems like so much has happened in the 2 months since I last wrote. Most importantly the adoption is finalized. Matt and Kayla are forever a part of this family-- hopefully they're as happy as we are.

Speaking of family, tonight we celebrated Grandma (Nana) Webber's birthday (I don't believe I'm allowed to publish the age). Lots of fun, kids were good-- family was entertaining. Madisen said we have a "big happy family"-- funny how happy and crazy often go together ;) Guess it just makes for overall entertainment.

Hum, what else has happened... Matt and Kayla were bumblebees for Halloween-- very cute ones I might add. Peter and I were also able to eat whatever of their candy we wanted-- cause they're mean mommy thinks they're really too young for candy and just made the go door to door for the heck of it.

My favorite words and sayings the kiddos are using currently

Ouuuu Twee = wow, that tree is so pretty that I wish I could touch it

Elmo (said all the time, any time)-- Kayla even inserts Elmo into songs she sings when she doesn't know the words "twinkle, twinkle little star, how I ELMO..."

mine = now, how did we ever get by without that one

NO = as above

Cupcup = the kids name for Jacob

tuck, I tuck = means I'm stuck and run, I'm about to scream

Peez = very polite way to ask for anything-- they truly believe it’s the magic word and often use it after we've told them "no"

Yeah, I can't think of much more for now... so-- signing off. Later