Christmas comes but once a year

We had a great Christmas holiday with Dan's parents and James, Alyson, and their one-year-old. Nathan wanted to make sure we left cookies for Santa and put hay out on the grass for the reindeer (provided from his class party earlier). We each opened a gift on Christmas Eve, and then we had the kids act out the Nativity. Nathan played the part of Joseph, Sophia played Mary, and my old cabbage patch doll got the role of Jesus since their cousin was asleep. The kids brought out every animal they could to surround the manger.

Bring on the battles! Nathan loves his Anakin light saber and Nerf sword.

Sophia got her balloons and some other gifts too, like this shopping cart she likes to fill with all kinds of toys, including play food.

I thought since Phia likes to color so much, she'd also like to paint, and now she's old enough to give it a whirl.

It was a winner! Here's our expressive modern artist at work.

Nathan got this sweet jacket from G & G Drake.

Sophia digs her baking set, which goes great with her kitchen. She has left my measuring cups and spoons in MY kitchen for a change now that she has her own.

The kids look cute in their new pajamas. Thanks to our parents, family members, and friends for helping them to have a very merry Christmas. Nathan said it was "the best Christmas ever!" They loved it all and are two of the happiest kiddos I've ever seen.

Grateful moment

I am thankful for the kind elves (friends? fam?) who gave us anonymous gift cards and a credit card. We really appreciate it, and it warms our hearts that you remembered us this Christmas season. I wish I knew who gave them so I could thank you personally, but I know that's not why you did it. I'm glad there are people like you!

I'm also grateful I got to meet up with my old college roommate, Carolyn, and visit with her and her beautiful family on Christmas Eve. She was so much fun to live with, and now she's a hot mama. It would be fun to have a reunion with all my old roomies. Happy new year y'all!