December was once again a busy, but blessed time of year for the Hurts.

For the second year in a row, we hosted a cookie baking day and invited our friends and neighbors. I think this is a tradition that needs to continue.

This year we made a castle instead of a house.

The kids participated in a couple of Christmas plays. Lucy had her first speaking part as the angel who announces the birth of Christ and Jack was a narrator. In the children’s choir program, Jack was the fiddle player and did a great job overcoming his fears and actually enjoying it.

Jack also participated in a piano recital. He played “Rudolph” and “Oh Christmas Tree.” This kid played so well and only missed one single note. I love watching him get better and better.

This was our new Christmas music this year.

Lucy made me a birthday card with a jewel encrusted 33 for my birthday.

And Doug insisted on hibachi and brownies for his 34th.

Christmas eve brought the long awaited culmination of months of rehearsals for Doug and the worship team. I am biased of course, but everyone did such a good job. Christmas day was just the four of us at home. It was relaxing, exciting, and honestly a little sad because we were missing our loved ones.

Lucy decided the presents needed to be stacked in towers.

This summed up the day: new pajamas, Christmas movies, and new treasures. Doug was really happy I bought the kids recorders.

Let nothing you dismay
Remember, Christ, our Saviour
Was born on Christmas day
To save us all from Satan’s power
When we were gone astray
O tidings of comfort and joy!