Olivia is making a concerted effort, knowing she made some huge mistakes yesterday.  I'm so glad to see it!  We began our day going to a mall about 20 min away in Tampa.  We hadn't seen Santa yet, and they had what looked to be some neat Polar Express activities there as well.  We don't always "see" Santa every year, it's not on my priority list, but is fun if we happen to be there and it's not crowded.  Tomorrow we're going to this amazing Polar Express Train Ride my parents booked for us, the kids don't even know yet and will be SO surprised!  I thought it'd be neat to see the things on display at the mall to coordinate with that trip, and they had lots of fun too!  We were one of the first couple in line and able to zoom on through.  

Next, we headed to Build a Bear.  Braeden and Olivia have both made a stuffed animal there for past birthdays with Grandma and Grandpa, but last year Liam wasn't interested so we tried again since his birthday is next month.  He wanted them all, but as soon as he saw Alvin (from the Chipmunks!) that was far and away his choice! :)

Afterwards, the boys stayed with Grandpa in the play area while us girls walked through a few stores.  Olivia received some money already for Christmas and it was just burning a hole in her pocket! :)  She ended up getting some good deals, but is now broke once more! :)  Ahh, the joys of money! :)  She'll learn!

The kids are resting now and we're going to try the amazing lights place tonight... here's to a new day!  

Isn't it great that we can royally mess up, be forgiven, and start anew!?  Just like God does with us!  And when those little reminders of what happened the day before creep into my consciousness, that's exactly what I need to remind myself.  I mess up, we all do, and yet God is there with forgiveness and He doesn't go around reminding me of all I've done wrong in the past, and I'm so glad He doesn't!!!  :)  On to a new day!