Merry Christmas!

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger."  And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!" Luke 2:11-14

I absolutely love Christmas! Here are some of my favorites from Christmas 2010:

Our first Christmas tree! However, it didn't stay like this for long....

Sending and sharing some love ♥ 

Baking for my first Cookie Swap - Six dozen Jam Kolache Cookies, a Polish tradition!

Steven singing in his school's Christmas play 

(the kid in the center holding the fruitcake) 

A little Unrelated-to-Christmas Cubing - Liberty Science 2010 Competition  

     Shipping boxes become a Kitten Adventure! 

 Gingerbread fun! 

 And of course, 

 the reason our Christmas Tree is nearly bare. 

Merry Christmas, Everyone!! 

A New Addition

Yesterday, James and I took a stroll to our local animal shelter to adopt a new kitten. It was an easy decision to choose which lovable little guy would be joining out home - a playful and a bit spazzy 12 week old brown striped tiger.

The decision to expand our little family came from our current kitten, Oliver. About a week ago, James and I suddenly woke at 1:00am to the strange sound of our crying kitty. Carefully, we tip-toed out of our bedroom, scared of what we might discover. However, we did not find a cat pinned under a piece of furniture like I originally thought. Instead, we discovered our little boy meowing at his favorite tiger toy. The decision was made. Oliver needed a playmate.

We brought the little guy home, and although he was a bit scared, he seemed to quickly out grow the bathroom we were storing him in. Jumping, rolling, clawing, and pouncing his way about the room. 

Anxiously, Oliver sat by the door awaiting to meet his new brother. We opened the door, and the boys were about to meet....

A few sniffs, some meows, lots of purrs, and Crusoe became the brother Oliver always wanted. 

Yes, this is how it all played out.... in my mind. 

In reality, there were a few meows, some growls, and lots of hissing. However, with some time the boys started playing together. They are still trying to establish their dominance, but things are much better then they were yesterday. We are currently keeping them separated and monitoring their playtime. We hope that in a few weeks, Oliver will no longer need to snuggle with a toy, but will now how a new brother to cuddle at bedtime.