A Holy Family?--Baby David become Baby Jesus

Hanging of the Greens Service is an opportunity to learn about the meaning of the symbols of Christmas. Soon after our arrival at First Baptist Church of Mobile, we learned that the church traditionally has a family with a young baby dress up like the Holy Family during this special service.

I am not certain we looked much like the Holy Family. My Joseph costume looked more like a Hispanic Pirate than an Mediteranean Carpenter. As always, Jen looked radiant, but maybe more like a gypsy than Mother Mary. Of course, David stole the show.

In the carol "Away in the Manger," the text says, "the cattle are lowing, the baby awakes, but little Lord Jesus no crying he makes." I doubt the writer was present to verify this account. In fact, in the service, I wondered aloud if the writer had any children. Regardless, Baby David couldn't quite stay still, looking angelic. He wanted a bit more action. So, the swaddling clothes feel off quickly to reveal a cute Christmas onesie.

And, although we were far from the first Holy Family, it was a wonderful celebration for our family and our church family. And, I hope, even with all our errors, God looked down at our little Baby David and remembered a moment long ago, when another little baby was born and laid in a manger...

Merry Christmas

A Winter's Night--Dad and David

"Put a coat on David," mama Jen shouted down the hallway as Daddy got ready to leave for Walgreens on yet another diaper run. Now, truth be known, Daddy has an issue with making David wear his coat. David hates his coat. Daddy hates David crying. So, at the end of the day, both Daddy and David are often caught saying, "Ah, c'mon mom, no coat....please...."

Of course, when it is only 35 degrees outside. Daddy and David lose the argument. Until....Daddy comes up with a cute plan that makes mom smile and is a creative way "around the system."

Daddy and David share a coat!

David Meets Christmas

We've officially broken out the "Baby's First Christmas" gear and introduced our darling son to the wonder that is Christmas. Thank God - he loves it.

We realize David isn't quite old enough to understand the warm fuzzies that come along with the season, but he sure does like those sparkling trees and twinkling lights. We have a glowing Tigger ornament on our tree that he just about drools over (ok, so he literally does drool over it).

We've learned, however, that the green and red Christmas outfits are "gender inclusive" so we've had to answer the "What is it?" question once or twice. Thought we were past that....

And, God love him, David seems to be a fan of those delightfully tacky stuffed animals that sing and dance when you push the button on their foot/paw/ear, so you can expect our house to look a little bit like a senior center this year.

We can't wait until we can give him his "presents" - we've been warned that the wrapping and boxes will be the biggest hits of all, but that won't stop us from buying up all things bright, beautiful, and Disney!

Happiest Place on Earth

Last week, we had the joy of taking David to Disney World (for his second trip - the first one where he actually stayed awake). Before you protest, we are indeed aware that he will not remember the trip and that he will enjoy it more as he ages. Chris' family was gathering for the week in the Magic Kingdom, and we were just thrilled to be a part of the magical experience, little baby and all.

Truthfully, I think David did enjoy his time in the Disney empire. He sat up like a big kid in his umbrella stroller, watched all the lights go by, and seemed captivated by the hustle and bustle of it all. The hit of the experience was a ride on "it's a small world" which found David wide-eyed, constantly turning his head to capture every moment of the singing and movement. Sadly, the Haunted Mansion did not go over so well - apparently our little guy is not a big fan of scary yellow eyes or things that go bump in the night (he must take after his father). Another highlight of the trip was watching David interact with his little cousin Layla (6 weeks younger than him), and we got to ooh and ahh as they held hand and babbled at one another.

As always, David's presence brought so much joy and laughter to the entire family. Although Chris and I have been to Disney World countless times, it was an entirely new and exciting trip to experience the magic through the eyes of a child.

David Goes Trick-or-Treating

As is the duty of all first-time parents, Chris and I searched endlessly for the perfect First Halloween costume for little David. Truthfully, this meant we made him try on a bunch of costumes and immediately purchased the first one he did not cry while wearing.

Thus, David became the world's cutest Hot Chili Pepper. Being the cheesy individual that I am, I insisted that our little family band together in some sort of theme - and being the wonderful husband that he is, Chris played along. Together, we made up the Three Amigos (bonus points to Chris for sporting the multi-colored sombrero).

David's first trick-or-treating was a huge success. Since we only went to the homes of folks we knew, he was lavished with candy and cookies that his parents promptly enjoyed in his honor - a happy Halloween was had by all.

David's Excursion Day

On Wednesday, Our mission team was able to travel across the state of South Dakota to see some of the sights. It was a much needed break after a couple of hard days of working, ministering, and building relationships.

As always, David stole the show and become the center of attention at every stop. We were able to get a few pictures of him in this new setting and wanted to share them with our new friends through this blog!

Hope you enjoy.

David Becomes A Missionary

We've arrived safe and sound in Mission, South Dakota for a week long mission trip with our church. This week, we'll be serving the Lakota Indians, a relatively forgotten and mistreated segment of the population. In addition to service projects, each evening will offer a "cultural experience" such as a speech from the Chief, a sweat lodge, or a traditional Native American meal.

Since we are traveling with little David (who is, understandably, the hit of the trip) my missionary work today consisted of baby care and learning how to sew on a real sewing machine. I realize it sounds silly, but I am quite proud of the tiny pillow I created today under the excellent guidance of our church members. I hope to create some more items this week that can be sold/gifted in the Lakota thrift store.

Although this adventure is amazing, it is utterly exhausting both physically and emotionally. This does, however, make for some phenomenal sleeping. I'll do my best to keep y'all updated on our Lakota journey.

In the Garden

Venturing outside to grab this morning's paper, I noticed a slight chill in the air (to us Mobilians, this means the temperature was lower than 90 degrees). This hint of beautiful weather prompted me to take David on a trip to Bellingrath Gardens, knowing howhe just loves to be outdoors.

I spent much of the day simply watching as David took in each sight, smell, and sound. He would focus for the longest time on things I barely even noticed - a tiny waterfall, the sound of a fountain, or just sunlight shining through the trees. I could almost see the wheels turning in his head as he struggled to take it all in. Fortunately, this sensory overload led to a big ole nap on the ride home.

We have a big, beautiful world out there, and I just can't wait to show it all to our little man.

My Favorite New Title: David's Daddy

On nights like tonight, Jen spends some time working as a nurse and sharing her healing touch with others. And, I get to spend some time with baby David.

David and his mommy have a special relationship. Whenever he sees her, his eyes light up and his lips curl into a wonderful smile. David and his daddy have a great relationship too. When I walk into the front door, he seems to sense my presence and inevitably turns toward me. And, when his eyes meet my own, my heart beats a little faster. Then, he smiles, kicks his feet, and starts to try to talk. For better or worse, he is his daddy's little boy. A fidgeter who just can't stay still or silent for very long.

Each night, before falling asleep, I whisper a prayer of gratitude to God for this precious gift. Then, after saying Amen, I whisper to Jen, "I do."

Who's Your Blogger?

OK, so we caved. After all these years of mocking bloggers, we've finally joined the empire of online ranting, raving, and every-last-detail sharing. It's funny how welcoming the cutest little baby in the universe gives you something to brag about.

Truly, we hope to use this site to keep y'all posted on the latest happenings in the George kingdom, since our family and friends are sprawled to the four corners of the earth. Expect tons of baby pictures, since we just can't seem to keep our fingers off the shutter. And please-go ahead and post your responses- it is always nice to be reminded that there is indeed life out there.

Thanks for reading - stay tuned for details on our latest adventure. :)