Tis the Season To Be Jolly!!!

That saying is so true I don't see how anyone can be unhappy around this time of year. So many fun things going on and it really makes you realize how grateful you are for your family. I know the Christmas season is hectic and busy, but I wouldn't have it any other way for my kids. As I was growing up around Christmas we had party after party to go to. With so many gifts, and of course all that good food. Its so sad that I'm sure all of our New Years resolutions are to lose a few pounds. Holidays gain like 10 pounds. I love it though. This year was so fun Brevin is at such a cute age he doesn't quite get the Santa thing, but he does know its a special time of year and loves all the presents. I of course am behind on posting a couple of things that lead up to the special day, I have to post them because my pictures are darling. So here goes for a long post of alot of pictures. Sorry if you get bored.
A couple days before Christmas my sisters and I had our traditional holiday day of fun. This was one of our favorites. I'm not sure why, just really mellow no fighting, all the kids in good moods including adults. It was a fun afternoon of making Christmas countdown chains, Santa Clause's that I might add were darling thanks to me. I'm so creative. Just kidding. We also played a cute game that was kind of like musical chairs sort of. And for our treat we had delicious donuts from Shaffer's bakery in Logan. I think that's what its called I've drawn a blank. Here is just a few pictures of our fun day.





Now for the big day each year we always do the same thing. Christmas Eve we go to my grandpa's, Christmas day we make the rounds. My mom's, my inlaws, then my dads. My poor kids the are so tired by the end of that day. Only I know they can't complain to much check out these piles and a brief explanation as to how they received all these treasures.

Our Christmas Eve started out with a little party at my Grandma Grover's. I always have good memories of this party. Great food, cute gifts, comfy Christmas jammies, and my uncle Steve telling up we'd better get home soon so we don't miss Santa I love it. I'm so glad my kids get to have all these grandparents who love them and make this time special for them.

Gifts and more gifts.

I always loved the anticipation of Christmas morning. I remember waking my sister up in the middle of the night cause I couldn't sleep. Only it always happened that we would talk for a bit and then I would fall asleep leaving her wide awake. Sorry about that Jen. My house is a bit different my kids and Souli slept till about 9:00 that was unheard of Christmas morning when I was a kid. My kids loved their gifts. Well Brev did only Santa made the mistake of giving him his bike right off. He should have left it in the closet till last because once he saw that there was no getting him to open any others. We finally convinced him to open the others while sitting on his bike. That lasted about 2 presents then he got off and opened all his and all of Elle's she tried helping but just wanted my camera instead. Its hard to take pictures lately because of her. It was a great morning I love being with just my family and seeing the happiness on their faces.

My Nutcracker for the year. I love him he is so different then any of my other ones. Thanks honey.
Our first stop for the day was my moms. I love going to my mommies house for Christmas. She is seriously the best hostess. Everything looked perfect from the table settings, the food, her gifts were my favorite of anything my kids got, but mostly just her. I always say this but I hope to be like her. I've been struggling lately with a few things and I just want to tell you mom how much your advice means to me. Its changed my views on alot of things. You are an amazing person and the best mother in the world. I'm almost crying sitting here thinking about how much I love you and admire who you are. My kids are so lucky to have you. You gave them the most thoughtful presents. I love my crosstitch, I love the kids ornaments, and my most favorite it Elle's blanket. I will use it more then she will. I love you.

Papa Deano and my mom gave Brev this little scooter type thing. Summer here he comes.

They sure love their grandma.

Next stop was my inlaws. I always feel bad that we don't spend as much time with them. Only they really do hold a special place in my heart. They are all so sweet and love my kids more then they will ever know. My mother inlaw amazes me she works so hard and is always there when we need her. It was a fun afternoon. Thanks for the delicious food and for the gifts. You mean so much to me and my family.

Last stop for the big Christmas Day was my dads for yet more food and presents. He always puts so much thought into things. My dad got Brevin these little cars seriously his favorite gift besides his bike. He loves it. Thanks for the fun night and for all you do for my family. You mean the world to me. I know we don't see you a whole ton but my kids love you so much. You are Brev's and Elle's Papa and they are always so excited to see you. Thanks to all of my family for making this holiday season memorable. I love you all so much and Merry Merry Christmas.