Christmas Wrap Up

Wow, I can't believe that Christmas already came and went! It was a whirl-wind for us since we had so many places to go. I am not complaining because it was a blessing to see a lot of our family but it was a little exhausting.

Christmas Eve day was spent at Aunt Debbie's. She and my cousin Dodie put on so many activities for the kids to do. I totally love that they do this every year because it really focuses on the kids and it has nothing to do with presents. Austin first participated (barely) in a live nativity scene. He was a not-so-happy shepherd. (he had just woken up from a 10 minute nap and needed some time to adjust) My niece Donna Dean was Mary. Austin would not leave her side. Thank goodness she was there or he would have sat out this year. During the nativity scene, the story of Jesus' birth is told and there were carolers singing. It was too cute!

The Grumpy Shepherd

Once Austin saw Santa he was in a better mood. He can see Santa anywhere and think he is the real deal. He told him again that he wanted roller skates.

The kids made a their own Christmas cookie to leave out for Santa and individual cakes which they put candles in to sing Happy Birthday to Jesus. Santa ended up forgoing the cookie that Austin made since it was loaded with red hots, Pez candy and life savers.

Next, it was on to the crafts. The kids made reindeer food, pine cone bird feeders and painted their own ornaments.

The candy cane and bell are on our tree and will be every year. I love homeade ornaments.

Austin woke so excited to find all the stuff that Santa had left him. He brought just the right amount this year since last year he went a little overboard. :) The train set below had many other parts to it and ended up covering the floor by the end of the day. I highly recommend GeoTrax.

Waylon and I both got new watches this year and Austin has been bugging us for one for a while. He finally got one in his stocking. He has worn it every day since. He can't tell time and most of the time the watch has all zeros on it since he constantly pushes the buttons. We totally love asking him what time it is because he looks at his watch and says, "15" or "8-9". The majority of the day, it is 8:00.

This was one of his favorite toys. He is so intrigued by fire trucks and fire stations so he got the complete set.

Santa came through on the roller skates. Yes, he does have a helmet (not pictured). And trust me, he will need it. I am surprised I was able to get this pic because he can barely stand up in those things.