Whew!!!!!!

Christmas has come and gone around here. The tree is out by the curb, waiting to be turned into mulch. Most of the decorations have been taken down and packed neatly into their boxes. My living room hasn't faired so well. There is still bits of wrapping paper, pine needles, and toys aplenty from one wall to the other. 

We had a fun Christmas! We started Christmas week off with a visit to our favorite guy in the red suit. In the pouring rain. Not California rain- God left the shower running full blast! So we stayed home mostly, off the roads and away from the craziness. 

On Christmas Eve we went to hear the Christmas story at a friend's church. I do believe we have started a new tradition in this. It was short, sweet and to the point!

Then came the most awaited day of the year (at least for my kids)- Christmas! 

Then much unwrapping was had. You don't realize how many presents you really have when each kid gets 8-9 gifts, times 4 equals...a lot. After holding everyone down for a few seconds, it's the great unwrapping rush.

Princess wanted one thing, and one thing only. Santa obliged. 

My plans for this Christmas were to buy lots and lots of outdoor toys. I wanted them to get out in the backyard more and play. I think my mission was accomplished!

I also got to see my niece on her first Christmas! She is just the cutest little baby ever! Even more perfect, I can hold her, cuddle her, and hand her back to Mom & Dad. It was great to see my brother with his own family, he is so happy. 

Princess was enjoying lots of time with her favorite Aunt. At one point she was using her Aunt and Uncle has pillows to lay on. 

A few other Christmas surprises later, a yummy dinner, and some badminton, it was time to go to bed. Everyone was tired, but it was a day we will all remember and look back on for many years to come. I love spending time with all of my family.