i don't have a title for this post, but it is multitude monday, so let me catch up on noting everyday graces in our little family. poor snuggle bug had a double ear-infection (her first ever!) last week that dr honey bunny noticed had ruptured on one side. she was just miserable for a couple days, but we put her on some antibiotics (ruptured, but only partially drained and the doc said the process was likely to repeat if we did not treat it) and the effects were almost immediate! marit is really a dutiful patient and loves to have her hears examined.



adam has been soooo busy as usual and i am learning that though there will be worse seasons than others, the doctoring field does not promise to be less than challenging for all of us. ever...mostly due to long hours. BUT he had a post-call day butted up to a day off (1st in 12) this weekend and we were able to go to his fancy work Christmas party thanks to the generosity of a dear friend who loves to babysit the munchkins. we talked and it was great! thanks to those who helped me winterize this green dress that i have not been able to wear for 3 years.

we also got a Christmas tree this weekend, but it is not fully decorated yet...these things happen very slowly around here, but adam was so cute with his hot chocolate after the kids went to bed last night as he carefully wrapped the lights. he is nothing if not careful and i love him for it (when i'm not being sinful). maybe i'll post a Christmas tree photo later.

we have been practicing for our annual Christmas evensong and i just relish all the rich words of advent music. we sing them with the kids before bed too. i've been thinking on these lately and letting them sink in...

O Savior, Child of Mary, who felt our human woe,
O Savior, King of glory, who dost our weakness know;
Bring us at length we pray, to the bright courts of Heaven,
And to the endless day!

more gracious gifts 96-117
anticipation
holidays
family gatherings
cousins
pies
God's faithful care
advent preparations
hot showers
helpful parents
singing
generous grandparents
reading beatrix potter with marit
sick toddler means lots of extra snuggles
newlywed cuteness
soft fur
toddler learning to use kind words
sibling kisses
encouraging conversation with neighbor
antibiotics
fancy date with husband
church family meal
advent music
He "felt our human woe"