Cutest ugly (but still adorable) Christmas sweater—and turtleneck—model ever. :D

When birthday presents come just a few days before Christmas. I’m not the teensiest bit mad about it either. Happy birthday to me!

First he walked down the street, found a pile of leftover snow and kicked it. And when we were still weren’t done chatting he flopped in the neighbor’s yard, much like the Santa Claus who is refused air by day but by night stands alert next to the lit reindeer. When I saw the light glowing around him I ran fast for my camera and begged him to stay in place. And he did. Because he’s that kind of kid.

I love these people! This is us getting a bit giggly at the end of our [miniscule] photo shoot. Now that I’ve got my tripod game figured out there’s no excuse not to have something to frame for the grandmas! Here’s one of the extras from our brief foray out in the Nebraska wind two days before Christmas.

Rebecca has been coming over to help me wrap Christmas presents since 2011.

That makes me want to cry!

A few weeks ago I considered writing something on Facebook about how, if you have a neighbor who is elderly or has a physical ailment, you should go help them during the holiday season. Putting up lights or other decorations, scooping snow, running to the store, and yes, even wrapping presents, can be very difficult for someone slowed down by body problems. But let me tell you something about 2018… I didn’t worry at all about the gifts that piled up in Jeremy’s office (hidden from one particular 14 year old), and that was because I knew Rebecca was coming.

This friend is a light to me, and not just on our designated wrapping session every year. She is a breath of fresh air, a beautiful soul, and a joy to watch as she grows and changes. Rebecca, I love you! Thanks for using your strong arms and perfect wrapping skills to bless my family.