Merry Christmas

The Savior - yes, the Messiah, the Lord - has been born today!

Luke 2:11

 

... and we are so thankful!

Thanks

In an effort to practice a lifestyle of thanksgiving, we started a “Tree of Thanks” at our house this fall. Since November 1, each night after dinner, the boys, JJ and I record things we were thankful for that day onto a leaf, and hang those leaves on our tree (a bundle of branches). We also read aloud a scripture each night that reminds us that we have a God that is good and deserving of our thanks.

Daniel really seemed to enjoy this exercise and would come up to me all times throughout the day with something to put on the tree. Here are a few things we give thanks for:

1. Family
2. My (Daniel’s) buddy Dylan across the street.
3. To be living in a great neighborhood with loving neighbors
4. Jesus dying on the cross
5. Friendships that lift us up and last over time and distance
6. The honesty of a stranger
7. Arms, legs, the ability to play sports and receive joy from them
8. Peanut Butter and Jelly
9. That nightmares aren’t real, and that God is watching and protecting us
10. Mommies and Daddies to cuddle with after a bad dream
11. Laughter
12. Daniel’s servant’s heart
13. A warm home
14. A truck that works, and the ability to loan it to others
15. Family time: cooking, playing, chores, serving together, movies and popcorn...
16. That the concerns of t his world shrink under a Kingdom lens
17. The smell of baked apples
18. Beautiful weather
19. Humility gained during imperfect situations
20. A God who loves us, and has perfect plans for our lives

Happy Thanksgiving!

Tricks and Treats

As you can see, the boys enjoyed celebrating Halloween this year. Fortunately, the fact that both Chase and Daniel found out they had Hand Foot and Mouth Disease Halloween morning didn't dampen their spirits, or the the decibel level which they could scream "Trick or Treat!"

A Soccer Tradition

The Hendricks soccer tradition sprouts a new vine this fall as Daniel takes to the field for his first season of organized soccer through the YMCA. He is definitely a valued player on his team, scoring most of the team's goals currently. But what makes us even prouder is the way Daniel cares for his teammates and works hard to get the ball to kids who don't naturally touch the ball much during the games. Daniel, we are so proud of you. You are a joy to watch, as is your coach (see team photo below).

Camping 2.0

In spite of last year's "comedy of errors" venturing into the woods for our first family camping trip, we tried our luck again last weekend, and praise God, we had a very fun, very safe time. Of course there were s'mores ... and s'more. Trip to a nearby lake. Digging on the shore. Construction tent-side. Scooters (aka "monster truck races"). Chase is really getting the hang of this thing. Late night pizza snack. Yes. After brushing our teeth. Good times had by all.

Happy 2nd Birthday, Chase

A Day at the Rodeo

Chase and Daniel Walk the Plank ... I mean, Aisle

That's what the Hendricks boys think about dressing up. (Although, they loved being a part of Mandi and John's wedding.)

A little practice.

"I'm friends with the flower girl. She said it's okay."

Wedding party photos, right this way.

What a crew!

I think they forgot MY flowers.

"Why is everyone inside? The weather is fantastic!"