December extras

Harrison wasted no time putting together his model car engine that he got for his birthday.

Harrison's cup weaving was picked for display at school.

He also helped load coats from their coat drive.

Harrison & I went to see our friend performing in the Nutcracker.

Grace helping Jeff make rice crispy treats.

Grace singing at the church Christmas party and Harrison went to the military band Christmas concert

Our wonderful friend, Ms. Karen, came over for dinner.

Christmas presents from more great friends and their Santa pups.

Harrison decided to take piano lessons again this month and has started playing again just for fun.

This year the kids made a gingerbread train.  It lasted one day before they started eating it.

Animals made of stone, ornaments and gift cards, hooray!

And finally, Ms. Bee personally delivered reindeer food to the kids from Queen Winter Wonderland.  We've know her since Harrison was six weeks old.  She's the director of the playgroup, infant massage and parenting classes program that our family has participated in.  It was great to see her! 

Christmas Day

I love that Christmas fell on a Sunday this year.  Maybe it was just me, but the day felt more peaceful, joyful and centered.  We told the kids that we wouldn't open presents until 7:00 so if they woke up before that (and they did) they were allowed to go downstairs to look but couldn't touch anything or wake anyone up.  They listened and obeyed.

The kids were all so happy with and grateful for their gifts.

After an hour of presents we got ready for church.  Grandma Anne went with us.  It was a lovely service with lovely people.

The rest of the day was pretty easy going.  We changed into comfy clothes, the kids played with their gifts and we ate great food (thank you Jeff).  Harrison's hat was given to him 6 years ago and it still fits.

One of Grace's gifts was a superhero dress-up set.  She said it made her run faster.  Leo received a scooter this year which he rode in the house all day long as it was super cold outside.  They were definitely enjoying their gifts.

It's always somewhat hectic leading up to Christmas, but as Jeff and I have had time to reflect on the day, we both thought that it was one of our best Christmases.  Sometimes a few small changes can make a big difference.  P.S.  Santa did sign Leo's note but I forgot to get a picture of that.

Christmas Eve

The kids get to open their gifts to each other on Christmas Eve.  I usually take all three kids to the thrift store to let them pick out their $5 sibling gifts; however, the boys' school had a Christmas store this year where they were able to buy Grace's gifts.  Leo gave Grace a jeweled heart shaped treasure box.  Grace found Leo another exercise ball.  They both were very happy with what they received.

Harrison gave Grace a necklace that said "princess".  Grace gave Harrison a remote control vehicle.  They both loved their gifts to each other.

Leo gave Harrison a telescope.  Harrison gave Leo soccer player cards.  The also loved each of their gifts to each other.

Grandma Anne came over for the festivities.  Having her for our neighbor is a real gift!

Then it was time to throw out the reindeer food.

Then baths, pajamas, cookies and eggnog for Santa.

The kids went to bed surprising easy considering the excitement for the next day.