Christmas Day

Our three littles were up bright and early ready to explore the goodies that Santa dropped off.  The boys didn't make it past the entry way most of the day, because there was just way too much fun packed under the tree.

Ridley loved her new Elsa dress and wanted it on right away.  She added a little flair with her pajama under clothes.  "Let It Go"

Princess Elsa enjoyed playing with her new Beanie Boos and fairy suitcase. 

After several hours of playing with all the toys Santa left, the boys opened their suitcases to find - WADERS!  They were thrilled!  They put them on immediately and tested them in the pool. They stayed warm and dry, so the boys are ready to try them at the hunting camp.

We also celebrated Jesus' birthday with a cake and the happy birthday song.

Christmas Eve

One of our favorite Christmas traditions is going to Christmas Eve service.  It is a magical moment that gets me every time.  I love to hear the story of Jesus' birth, and I am always wiping my tears before it is over.

At the end of the service, it started snowing in the sanctuary.  The boys loved it!

Ridley, not so much!

Before we could call it a night, the children sprinkled the reindeer food on the front grass, and we put out treats for Santa.

Gingerbread House

We used our building skills this evening on a gingerbread house.  We skipped the directions and tore into the candy and icing.  We quickly learned that it was a bit more difficult than we thought.  We had to regroup and find some patience, so the "glue" icing could set.  We all had fun and can't wait to dig in.

The Kill

The boys had a great hunting trip this weekend.  They killed a doe on Saturday night and a 9 point on Sunday morning.  Making lots of great memories at the ranch.

Pictures with Santa

Ryland, Reed, and Ridley put on their cute Christmas pajamas to take a few precious pictures with Santa.  I was hoping that Ridley would like Santa this year, but as the photos demonstrate, she isn't a fan.

Christmas Cards

Love, love, love our Christmas cards.  I am so pleased at how well they came out.  What's even better? I have them early, and there is no stress with a photography delay.  I think this is the first year there hasn't been some sort of issue.

Tom

Our dear elf, Tom, came to visit, and he brought all kinds of fun goodies.  John Chris and I were thrilled to see him, in hopes of his presence relieving some brotherly stress.  The children couldn't wait to dig into the gingerbread house, candy, and new underpants.  Tom also brought a great book.  The Christmas Story illustrated with Legos, and it was perfect for the boys.

Geodes

We are enjoying every little moment of Thanksgiving break.  Today, the boys and I learned about geodes.  This fun kit provided hours of fun and education about these amazing "rocks".  It got a little messy, but that just made it more fun.  I love seeing their minds work!

Fun with Lizzie & Pops

The fun with Lizzie and Pops continues with a bowling celebration for Pops' birthday.  Everyone had fun laughing and hanging out at Main Event.  All three of the kiddos enjoy bowling, and the automatic bumpers help keep them happy. 

After a morning full of activity, Lizzie and the boys worked on the foam trains she brought.  They had a blast building and embellishing them. 

Thankful Tradition

This is my favorite fall tradition.  Every November 1, I place this frame on the counter in the kitchen.  Everyday our family selects one thing to write on the glass that we are thankful for.  I love the simplicity and honesty it brings.

To the movies

Chanda and I took the boys to enjoy The Good Dinosaur and check out the awesome new theater.  The boys loved the cushy recliners and snack packs.  They have no idea how incredibly fortunate they are.  I remember growing up with a lice infested theater, so everyone made the 30 minute drive to the mall to catch a movie. Living the good life!

Family Hunting

We all went hunting as a family this evening in hopes of seeing the big bucks.  It was cold out, but the mansion stand had heat.  The boys played on their tablets while John Chris and I gazed out across the land.  I think Ridley had the most fun.  She laughed and pointed as the cows grazed around us.  

We didn't see any bucks, but we saw one cow, some pigs, and a doe.  More importantly we soaked up the view from Mother Nature and spent some time sitting still.

Thanksgiving Crafts

The sweetest and cutest placemats I have ever seen.

CHCS Thanksgiving Feast

Reed enjoyed his feast with his class, and they chowed down in their festive handmade attire.  He selected Rolling Pig as his name, and it is a perfect fit.  My sweet javelina!

Camp

The whole family had a blast at the hunting ranch this weekend.  We met the Nesters at the camp, so the children had a blast.  They have so much fun being in the "wilderness".

This is what Beanie Boos do at the ranch.  They zip line!  I love their imaginations!

Table Tops

The Table Tops Luncheon event was fabulous.  I enjoyed the amazing tablescapes while chatting with some absolutely adorable ladies.  The best thing is that it was a successful fundraiser for the Gatehouse in Grapevine. 

       

Rough

A rough few days has me looking for inspiration and peace of mind.  This helped me find the calm in my soul today.

Afternoon at the Park

It was a beautiful afternoon, so we just had to get out to enjoy the gorgeous weather. Reed and Ridley loved running and sliding at the neighborhood park.  My little ones are getting so big!

         

Family Photos

I am so pleased with our photos this year.  It was a really rough day for me, and I didn't have our clothes together until an hour before.  It all came together.  I am shocked!