St. Nicholas Day

December 6 is St. Nicholas Day. When I was little we lived in Germany. My mom had us put our boots outside the night before. When we woke up, she'd have it filled with small treats.

Sometimes, I remember in time to celebrate the holiday with my kids as well. Some years the date gets away from me. Some years I'm more organized and have specific gifts for them: chocolate coins, craft supplies for them to make gifts with, and a toy to play with. Then there are years like this one, where my plans fall through (my package doesn't come in the mail on time) and I improvise.

The kids are happy, whatever the year brings.

Small Town Christmas Parade

Parade's are fun. Especially our annual small town Christmas Parade.

I enjoyed coffee on the sidewalk with my closest friends.
 

The boys marched in the parade with Boy Scout Troop...

...and Cub Scout Pack.

After they got to the end of the line, they ran back up to catch some candy and socialize with friends.

Then Santa came through. The kids were all so thrilled! "It's him!"

If your small town has an annual parade, don't shrug it off. Get out there and greet your neighbors! Indulge your inner child and enjoy it!

Farmer Boy

At our first Z.A.S. meeting we learned how to butcher a chicken. Calvin asked to take care of his own chicken from start to finish. He was given first pick.

The work was much harder than he thought it would be, but he hung right in there.

Every bit of this boy is bursting with pride. He has the heart to feed his family when it counts. He learned all about the anatomy of a chicken in the bargain.

He brought his bird home and made chicken and dumpling soup. It was the best chicken soup I've ever had, being full of my boy's pride.