The way we were, the way we are, the way we will be.

The official 2008 family portrait for the Christmas card that was never sent....

It has been decided. We are not doing the paper and postage kind of *Christmas card for 2009.

We're also not doing a tree at our home. Nor are we doing large exchanges and big time buying, something we've actually never done, though this year it's even more pared down.

In an effort to simplify and be better stewards this year, we have instead opted-- and decided in unanimous agreement-- to utilize such resources to adopt (with some other families) a family through St. Luke's Community House; to donate our extra jeans, sweaters, coats, long sleeved shirts, and other warm clothing items to those who need them more; and thirdly, to put some monies toward our household needs.

First up, buying a new couch (the old one, having belonged to several families prior to us, was sullied beyond repair with vomit and heavy use.) I'm very excited about this, as I've never in my life purchased a new piece of furniture such as this, and have been doing much research. It is with no small amount of grown-up feeling (pride? enthusiasm? accomplishment?) that I look forward to providing this for myself, and my loved ones with my own earnings and decision making power.

Additionally, we have work and other changes taking place as the year winds to a close and begins anew. These demand greater planning, and greater responsibility with resources with everyone on board. More on that as it comes.


*If you'd like an email version of our family letter and photo(s) for the 2009 holiday season, let me know.