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.