Our Family Christmas

Last year we started a tradition. The weekend before Christmas, we will celebrate Christmas ~ just the four of us. Andy and I grew up with family around us, however we do understand the importance of this time together as our little family. So, we are going to do both!!! Last year went well, but this year was exciting. It started today after nap ...

First, we read two books followed by some holiday crafts. We made Christmas trees, gingerbread men, and stockings. Next, we made sugar cookies and put the final touches on our projects. We went to open gifts. This was the first year the kids understood what was happening and they were SO excited. We got them Big Wheels (which Andy put together during nap time ~ with one trip by me to the store to get a missing part). Payton was so excited to see it. He exclaimed "I got a new bicycle." You would think that we would not have much under the tree, since the holiday is actually celebrated in Oklahoma. However, Andy's extended family is in New York. Their gifts plus ours made for one full tree. Once the gifts were opened, we called our family members to say thank you! They were more than generous this year, and we appreciate and love them very much! While the kiddos played with new toys, I got busy making chili (the wind chill hit -36 in our town today). After dinner, we played a little longer before the kiddos went to bed.

Christmas is such a beautiful time of year. I think back to the past years and how wonderful it has been. The first year, the kiddos were surrounded by toys, clothes, etc... and screaming! It was the only year that we stayed home. The second year, they were more interested in the idea. Last year marked some involvement in the festivities. They did silly things that I will cherish forever. However, this year is the first time that they are voicing their understanding of the meaning of Christmas. They love to sing the carols. They love the hear the story of baby Jesus. Yes, they are really into the gifts ~ this is the first year of them "getting it".

This weekend also marks a time of remembrance for me, however I am so blessed to be making new memories with those that I love more than life itself. As I close out our day of Christmas celebration, I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! (I have some great pictures ~ I will try to upload them in the next couple of days!) Check back!