Two Old Goats;)

Jan and I met back in College (1980s).  We were in theatre together, and I swear her confident, outgoing personality was the reason I got a full scholarship in theatre.  She was my partner and made everything on stage bigger and better.  

We've shared a lot in our forty years of friendship, and we also share a birth month:  January (Capricorn Goats).  We're both stubborn and independent--yet sensitive, kind-loving creatures. And dang it, we want things done by sundown:).  

My friend lost her husband this year, so we made it a point to get together over the holidays and celebrate another year of beautiful friendship.  Every day/year is truly a gift.  

Love you friend!  To many more trips around the sun and gorgeous sunsets.  

Christmas Family Fun

For three decades, I've hosted a themed family Christmas the weekend before Christmas. Over the years, we've gone from full houses in Galveston and Friendswood to a few members on the farm.  Some family members have passed on, moved, and others have branched out to start their own traditions.  

Grateful for my niece and great nephew for making this Christmas a fun-filled holiday.  To many more gatherings in celebration of family and...His birth!    

Oh Christmas Tree!

Got a later-than-usual start this year decorating the Christmas tree and almost left it with just its glistening lights.  However, Troy and Ella were off on their annual fiddle festival daddy/daughter trip, when nostalgia hit. 

I've never been a fan of artificial trees, but my hubby is allergic to all things green--except money;).  For me, the decorating part of the Christmas celebration has always been an awakening of the senses, and dried fruit decorations are the holy grail of Christmas crafts.  I love their simplicity and charm and above all...their smells.  

 

Did you know that stringing popcorn can be traced back to 1842 Colonial Williamsburg, VA?

My only real tree of the season;)

A Traditional Balloon Drop, a Gig and a New Year!

...Ringing in 2025 with Grandma and Grandpa...

 

... Risky Liver Band at Harmonie Hall...

...Goofy Grands...

...Gold, Money, Prosperity...

More than balloon drops, music, and symbolic food, the real new year is about our faith journey with God! 

PERMITted to Drive

Ella turned 15 in Branson this year.  She finished the online driver's education coursework long before her birthday, but needed to wait until we returned to officially get her permit.   She's off to a great start, but the road is a scary place.  This mama would love and appreciate travel prayers for her--and me--as she navigates the driving portion of the coursework.

This year's Christmas Ornament;)

You got this Ella B...it's the others I worry about!  Keep your eyes on the road, your hands on the wheel, and Jesus in your heart.  

 

The Greatest ADVENTure of All Time

 --a time of anticipation, preparation and celebration.  

Advent is a cherished tradition observed by christians around the world (and around the Broussard house).  Love looking back at the many celebration posts with Ella since she was a tot.   

As she grows, we explore a deeper understanding of its significance and symbolism. Every night we light the appropriate Advent candle for that week (Hope, Love, Joy, Peace), read one chapter in Luke, say a prayer, and blow out the candle.   

Every year, we look forward to our Jesse Tree tradition; it creates a sense of continuity with the past and nurtures a spiritual journey in the present.  After the homemade ornament is placed on the tree, we add a piece of straw to the manager, preparing a comfy place for our Savior. 

Happy Birthday Jesus!

During Creation week, we always spoil our feathered friends a little more than usual by making birdseed ornaments and providing nesting materials.