A Very Merry Christmas Indeed

Twas the day before Christmas and all through the house, all the kids were stirring and they just couldn't wait! I think we set a record for letting the kids make Santa's cookies and opening their one early Christmas present (PJs of course). They were all in pajamas by about 5:00 this year. It almost made things a little nicer actually. That way in the evening we could read the story of Jesus's birth out of the bible without chomping at the bit to get done and open their one early present.

Another tradition we've always done is to go sprinkle the "reindeer food" out in the yard. Here's a picture of them on the porch after they were done. They always leave out cookies and milk and this year Reese left a really cute letter for Santa that I was sure to copy before Santa took it with him. It read: " Dear Santa, I have been good this year, well not all the time but I think I was pretty good. Sometimes it's really hard to be good all the time, but nobody's perfect. I don't know what I want for this year but I thought maybe you could take something from my list and it could be from you. One thing, a lot of people forget what Christmas is really about but thanks for everything you do. I think you're extraordinary. THANKS!!! Merry Christmas, Love Reese.

The kids were up around 1:30 at which point I had to tell them to my knowledge Santa hadn't even been here yet and they better get to sleep if they wanted him to be able to come. After that we didn't see them until about 6:50 the next morning. As always, there was plenty of excitement to go around! And Nigel was just pleased to be inside on his new bed.

Here's a few pictures of the aftermath... Also pictured is our annual "Breakfast Pizza" a tradition started by Sam's Grandma, Jeanne. It's delicious, and with bacon on top of it, how could it not be?

I also had a wonderful Christmas. My favorite thing in the whole world is to see my kids so happy and excited. I think every year they say this was the best Christmas ever which, I must confess is a large part of my mission - accomplished! Sam was sweet and got me some really nice things. Our day was extremely laid back and I don't think I got out of my robe until at least 3 in the afternoon, so no pictures this time! One really big present we all got was a visit from Grandma Nyleen and Grandpa Ladd who are usually never here during Christmas. The kids loved having them here to show off all their new goodies and just love on them.One of the highlights I'd say of this year has been Elle's new kitchen that she "asked Santa for because she knew Mommy didn't have enough money" ... I thought that was a wise move on her part. :) Anyway, it has been so fun watching Elle and Audrey play with it for countless hours on end. I guess it goes to show me how far simple toys can go. Lots of the foods and accessories are wooden and it's been a lot of fun.Yup, lots of fun to be had, that is until you get attacked with the silly string that came in everybody's stockings.... Oh Elle, you spice up our lives.

We Hope you all had a very Merry Christmas!