Christmas Festivities

The weeks leading up to Christmas have been busy with sports, parties and other fun holiday festivities. On Tuesday I was able to meet up with my 'Bunco' girls for dinner and a fun gift exchange of our favorite things.

My Bunco Girls

Thursday, Casen had another basketball game and my dear friend Mary and her granddaughter, Addison (who Casen goes to church with) came and cheered he and his team on. 

On Friday, we had our second annual Christmas Caroling at work where a group of us went and caroled on all five floors of our building to spread some holiday cheer. 

Elevator pic of our group

Camden made the JVA soccer team this year and Friday evening they had their first school soccer scrimmage of the season where they won. I somehow failed to get a picture with my parents and Camden, however they were in town and were also there for the scrimmage.

Saturday Camden, Grandma and I headed out to a cemetery in Tomball so that Camden could participate in Wreaths Across America with YMSL. If you are not familiar with Wreaths Across America, its mission is to honor every veteran by bringing people together to remember the fallen, honor those who serve and teach the next generation the value of freedom. Their goal is to place a wreath on every hero's grave on Wreaths Across America Day.

Yesterday, Casen and his Hope Squad passed out mints to their classmates for words of encourage-mint.

To close out the week before we head to break, today Casen wore his pajamas and a festive hat to school. Camden also had to opportunity to enjoy some festive wear, however he does not normally participate on dress up days.

I know we all are looking forward to spending time with family and friends during the holiday break, but a little rest and relaxation will be nice as well.

A Song Sung, a Game Played and a Jacket Earned

The weeks leading up to Christmas are always fun filled. As he always does, Cooper made his visit on December 1st. While he no longer changes hiding places everyday, he still brought the boys their chocolate Advent calendar.

On Wednesday evening, we attended Casen's winter choir concert. It is always nice to hear the kids beautiful voices and enjoy the songs that help get you into the Christmas spirit.

Thursday evening, Casen had a home basketball game, which meant he had to dress nice for school.

Casen had his own fan club at the game where his team came away with another win.

Camden also had a good day Thursday when he received his letter jacket. He qualified to receive the Tomball Memorial Academic Letter Jacket due to his strong academic performance during his freshman year. He did not have the opportunity to get measured for it on the dates they offered in the summer, so he was measured in September. We were very proud of his achievement!

 

Thanksgiving Weekend

Our Thanksgiving week was pretty low-key, which allowed Camden the opportunity to do some volunteering this week. On Tuesday, Camden volunteered with the Haley Rasco Foundation helping stuff Christmas bags.

On Wednesday, we headed to Lumberton to spend Thanksgiving with Shane's family. The boys enjoyed hanging out and playing football outside. It is hard to believe how grown they are!

Saturday afternoon, Camden and I were able to volunteer at the Salvation Army preparing clothes for their Angel Tree recipients. 

The coming month will be busy, so I was grateful for the slow days of the break to be able to unwind, relax and do some online shopping for Christmas. 

Last Game of the Soccer Season

We made our way back to the Dallas area this weekend, this time for Camden's last few soccer games of the season. We were sad that we weren't able to see Mason and Grace while we were there, however they were in Europe on their honeymoon. 

It is always fun to watch the boys
play against a girl

One of the things the boys wanted to do while we were in the Dallas area, was to visit Post Malone's Raising Cane's. It was neat to visit, and of course, we always enjoy Cane's chicken tenders.

Lunch with one of his teammates

Now we can look forward to a little rest and relaxation this week as we enjoy our Thanksgiving break.

Wedding Weekend

What a beautiful weekend for a wedding! On Friday, we all left work and school early to head to Midlothian to celebrate my nephew Mason and his bride-to-be, Grace, at their rehearsal dinner. It was such a special evening—listening to their parents and members of the wedding party share heartfelt stories about this amazing couple was truly heart-warming.

My nephews, Mason and Braden, have always held such a special place in my heart, and I have had the joy of watching them grow into the wonderful young men. Not that I needed any more proof, but hearing all the incredible things people shared about Mason this weekend was a beautiful reminder of just how remarkable he is. Kuddos to Melissa and Shawn for doing such a great job raising their boys!

Braden and Mason

 

Since we were all staying at the same hotel, I was able to visit with Mason before he headed to the venue for his big day. As we talked, I couldn’t help but think about how he was just a few months old when I cared for him for a week while his parents were out of town. Now he’s 26, stepping into an exciting new chapter of his life—and I’m still trying to wrap my heart around how quickly time has flown.

Just a few days old

A few months old when I cared for him.

The wedding was held at the Nest at Ruth Farms in Ponder and it could not have been more beautiful. Mason was very emotional as he waited for his bride to come down then aisle, which had a lot of us in tears. I just wanted to go up and hug his neck!

Grace was a stunning bride and they were so precious together!

While photos of the wedding party were taking place, the guests enjoyed drinks and hors d'oeuvres outside. The weather was absolutely beautiful and God provided a beautiful sunset.

Mom and my boys

Melissa and me

We then made our way inside to celebrate the newlyweds!

Melissa and Mason

My mom and dad

Me and my boys

Braden giving the best-man speech

Braden, Lakin and me

The Key Girls

Mr. & Mrs. Mason McAnear 

It could not have been a more perfect weekend - filled with love, joy, and unforgettable memories!!! Congratulations to Mason and Grace!!!