Tonight I was doing a little blog stalking and I saw some of the most beautiful photographs. It made me realize that I am truly an amateur. Baby steps. At least, I am now taking photos on a regular basis. This is a favorite picture of Spence I took in Long Beach a month ago. I think I will try to take a photography class this winter.

This photo of Layla captures her personality. She is a bit wild but also fiercely loving.

The whole family is down with the flu today and we just slept and watched movies. We are hoping to recover quickly because we are having friends over tomorrow night for a almost New Year's Eve party.

Haven't posted a Story People quote for awhile so here goes:

Rolling along just waiting for someone to cross him so he can tell them the things he's been saving up for all those years when he wasn't so self-realized

Enough for now...love to all.

Such lazy days this week. I am working a few hours but off otherwise. So of course because there is time, we are all sick with colds. It is nice just to stay in bed and watch movies. We saw "Night at the Museum" on Christmas Day and "Eragon" yesterday at the theatre. Both great movies for families. I have noticed lately as my two are nearing adolescence, how difficult it is to find movies without trashy sexual references. We put on "Anchorman" and after 15 minutes, turned it off in favor of "The Incredibles." Had I been just with Doug or alone, I would have watched it but with my children, it just felt kinda sleazy. Spencer remarked that it "wasn't very respectful." It makes me grateful that he understands the difference. I know as the teen years come he may not feel the same way but it makes sense to reinforce his understanding of good movies and bad. Besides, how can the same be good for my spirit. It is hard to be disciplined because many of the shows I enjoy (Comedy Central) are in question. And for heaven's sake, why do we have to see those ridiculous Girl's Gone Wild ads every commercial.

The photo is Michaela's Project Runway pose. And a sweet picture of Kailey Jo on Christmas.

Well, the Tates had a wonderful Christmas. We took a different approach this year. Since the older kids were all flying in from Salt Lake City, we decided to begin the celebration with breakfast. We set a beautiful table (well three tables) for 12. It made me think how we have doubled in size since Doug and I were married. We took a fun quiz about the truth about the nativity. Then Doug read Luke 2. It was 10 o'clock before any gifts were we even looked at the gifts. Really pleasant. The spirit was really sweet and it was easy to feel the love in the room. WOW.

We gave Clint and Natalie annual passes to Disneyland. Natalie, Clint's wife cried when they opened their gift. She has an attached to Disneyland similar to mine. I have wonderful childhood memories of Disneyland. It was one place my father loved and he was always happy there and on his best behavior. Giving tickets to Clint and Natalie is one way to see our grandchild more often. She changes so much each time we see her. Right now she looks like Spencer when he was a baby. Cute, round head.

Today has been total relaxation. It is nearly 5 pm and I am still in my pajamas. Maybe I just won't change today. My life is so blessed. I recognize the gifts I have been given. My wonderful children, the peace of the gospel, the love of a good man. And increasing wisdom to recognize and be happy with this richness.

Enough for now...love to all.