Getting ready for Christmas

Seems like just a few days ago we finished our Thanksgiving feast, and now Christmas is in full swing. I even went shopping at midnight on Thanksgiving day and got all the kids presents bought before the weekend was out. Feels so good to have that done!

We put the tree up Thursday night and were very selective about the decorations we took out this year... Last year we just had a small tree on a table (thanks to the self-control issues displayed by our 11 month old little Alex at the time!). This year I decided to try the big tree, but not the usual keepsake ornaments with breakable glass or homemade irreplaceable angels and santas... I went to Target and bought some cardboard snowflake ornaments that, when thrown across the room, will remain intact and indestructible. So far Alex has only thrown a couple of them and I think he's lost interest.

You will also notice that we have our Elf sitting in the tree. This Elf, which Adam has affectionately named Jerry, came the day after Thanksgiving and he reports back to Santa every night as to whether or not we've been naughty or nice. When he comes back the next day he's in a different spot in the house. So, you can imagine the excitement in our house at 6:30am when we all jump out of bed to find Jerry. Even Alex is in on the fun.

The beauty of the tree is somewhat diminished by the plastic on the windows.... just got that done the other day, too. I love my old house, I love my old house, I love my old house. The plastic sure helps keep the drafty north winds out though.

Couldn't help but throw this photo in here - Alex, Rachel and Adam (his buddies) messing around last week over some snacks. I love Rachel's smile. She came home from China only a few months ago and is fitting in just fine!

Santa came to the Holt potluck dinner last night. Alexander didn't cry this year! Funny, because he may have sensed something that made him feel more comfortable.... if you look carefully, you might recognize this guy in red and white. :o). Adam was excited, however, because it was the REAL Santa who came. He went to visit him but no photos of Adam ... sorry.

Finally, this afternoon we did what Adam will say is the most important Christmas task of all. The letter to Santa. Signed, sealed and about to be delivered. He only included three things this year - an aircraft carrier (hopefully not a life-size one), star wars toys, and a bionicle. I hope Santa gets the letter!