It's official--I am the worst blogger EVA!!! Where to start? It has been a busy month full of parties, Santa visits, eating too much, drinking too much and spending too much. Anyone else feel this way? We had a lovely and low key Christmas. Our traditions include going to church on Christmas eve, followed by dinner with our dear friends, opening presents at home on Christmas and spending the afternoon with Darin's extended family. It was a super mellow Christmas and we really enjoyed time together as a family. Here are a few pictures from various outings throughout the month. Wishing you all a happy and healthy 2012!!!!

Lots of catching-up to do around here. First off, Ellery's birthday party. Such a fun time for her and her little friends. We had someone come and make balloon animals, did some face painting and crafts, followed by eating and playing. I feel so fortunate that Ellery has such a nice group of little playmates.

On a less fun note, last Friday Ellery broke her left arm for the second time. She received roller blades for her birthday and asked to take them to the park with us. I thought this was a great idea, as the bottom surface at the park is recycled rubber(as in a soft place to land). However, she fell on her elbow and happened to hit it "just right" for a second fracture. It was a bit dramatic and scary for her(as well as mom) because she was in some pain. We were fortunate to get into a local orthopedist office where they saw us right away and put a cast on her arm. She should have the cast off in three weeks, just two days before Christmas. Our girl is a trooper!!

Yes, it is cliche, but it is hard to believe our sweet little Ellery is going to be six tomorrow. Ellery, you make us proud each day with your kind spirit and loving ways. We love you so much. Happy Birthday!!! XXOO

This is one small part of the closet. There is another section for seasonal, dresses, and accessories(but it didn't look the way I wanted).

As I mentioned before, I actually enjoy organizing things. I don't have a perfectly organized home, but I aspire for things to be in order. My latest attempt at getting my home in order, brought me to my closet. I am fortunate to have a very large closet, but this also seems to prevent me from getting rid of things as often. I finally realized that half the battle in the closet comes from getting the appropriate hangers, and lining things according to color groups. I bought my hangers from Bed, Bath, and Beyond and they are made by Real Simple. They come in sets of 50, but I needed about 4 sets. Check out this inspiration: http://honeywerehome.blogspot.com/2010/10/mom-cave-my-closet.html In my wildest dreams....

This idea was stolen from Allison. If you have not already, check our her blog: www.thesoladayfamily.blogspot.com. She is super creative and crafty!

Happy Halloween from the Libby crew. Hope you had a great one!

Dining room before shot.

I once heard someone say that a good house is never done. I fully believe this to be true, as ones style and taste tends to change and evolve over time. We recently gave our dining room an overhaul. We changed the chandelier(from the builder's icky choice), painted, added board and batten, and replaced the china cabinet with a built in(which includes a wine refrigerator). We are THRILLED with the results and I think it may be my new favorite room in the house. The built-in.

Shot of the new dining room.

I am so happy to report that I am FINALLY well after being sick for 5 days! I can't remember the last time I was this sick......cold, cough, fever, chills, aches, the whole nine yards. We had to cancel our Halloween party and the children have had LOTS of indoor time this week.

We are off to Scottsdale this week. Darin has a speaking engagement there and we are going to tag along and stay at a beautiful resort with lots of fun things for the little ones. In case any of you are thinking about breaking into my house, we are having guests stay at our house to take care of the dog.....not to mention the fact that we know every one of our neighbors and they will call us in 2 seconds flat to report any suspicious behavior.

The pictures are from LegoLand last weekend. We took the kids there for "brick or treat". The park sets up a free(after a paid admission) trick or treating trail with lots of little goodies along the way. It was quite cute and Ellery was thrilled to wear her costume for an additional event.