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Coal for Christmas?

As I tie up all the loose ends preparing for Christmas morning, I decided to pop in for a minute. After spending a week at my parent's house taking care of their dog and my grandmother, I am home with my family. My dad had his surgery and is recovering very well. I really appreciate all the prayers that were said for him.

Last night, I stayed up way too late assembling toys and wrapping gifts, watching old movies and drinking lots of hot tea to try and keep at bay a cold that is threatening to make me feel miserable. The big girls and Tony started out helping, but one by one, they got tired, or rocked a baby back to sleep, until it was just Sophie and me.

This afternoon we will go to Christmas Eve Mass, where Anna and Jack will be in the children's choir. They have been rehearsing for an entire month. I have tried to let go this Advent and really enjoy the time with my family. Believe me when I say that this has taken much grace from God. I do not recommend trying to move overseas at this time of year. There are other kinks in our plans too. Trust. Trust that He knows what He is doing. Rest. Rest in His arms. I repeat that a lot lately.

Which brings me to the title of my post. Instead of getting upset when I saw what I saw, I laughed and grabbed the camera. One determined toddler can make many messes, but when he is trying to clean, how can you get mad?

Sweet little boy wanted to help wash his bottles.
But how did he get up there without any help?

Tony found him already washing the dishes.

Therese offers a clue as she tries to see what is going on.

Up and over is how he did it!

He is not naughty, right? He was just trying to be helpful.

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