We began a new tradition this year that I am thrilled about: we cut down our own Christmas tree. I have always had a live tree and despite the amount of work and mess associated with it, I LOVE IT!
It was a muddy afternoon, but no one seemed to mind!
We searched and searched for the perfect tree...
We were all happy to finally find it!
So thankful for a Daddy who doesn't mind doing a lot of hard work to fulfill this Christmas wish!
Once we got home, we had one of my favorite Christmas time treats: Egg Nog and Pfeffernusse cookies.
Last year, we made our own pfeffernuse- this year, we enjoyed store-bought. :)
Jack and Audrey loved helping with the tree this year. To see the magic and wonder in their eyes as we created our tree brought me to tears. I love our tree- each ornament holds a very special meaning to us. We collect ornaments on trips and get them to commemorate special occasions... it makes me so happy!
This year, Santa came to our house for a visit! What an incredible treat! Our local PTA helps Santa get to all of the houses... it was awesome! Audrey was a bit scared, but as long as she was in my arms and not Santa's lap- she allowed a picture to be taken!
Jack was so happy to see Santa this year. He told Santa that all he wanted was a new book for Christmas. Luckily, Santa brought one is in sack!
Our first 'real' snow of the season. Audrey still loves to help Daddy clear the driveway this year :)
Jack loves jumping and diving into the snow.
After we finished clearing the driveway, Daddy declared we were going sledding! Mommy was a bit of a naysayer at first, but SO HAPPY that we pushed bedtime back a bit for this evening of fun. We had the hill all to ourselves and both kids LOVED sledding this year!
Although this picture is a bit blurry, it totally captures the memory of Jack sledding. He whizzed and spun down the hill- giggling all the way. It was awesome!
Audrey insisted on laying down rather than sitting, but LOVED the sledding experience too!
Even Barry got to take a turn on the hill with Jack!
To celebrate the holiday season with our friends, we threw a gingerbread party. We had a wonderful time watching all of the kiddos decorate while we enjoyed a yummy brunch.
Even the babies had a great time!
Ella and Atticus
Eddie was very focused this year!
Cameron had BatMan to help him building his house
Jack loved to decorate (and eat) his creation!
The Fosters had a fun decorating
Audrey was very serious when it came to decorating!
Kyle took his time and very preciously placed each piece of candy!
We had a lot of fun baking this holiday season. We made shortbread, buckeyes, and cut-out cookies.
My little helpers love baking in the kitchen.
Rolling the buckeyes
