Sunday, December 12, 2010

It's Almost Christmas!

Once again, these pictures are a little out of order. One day, I'll remember to download them in reverse order, since I still can't figure out how to move them around on this internet browser. At any rate, we are busily getting ready for Christmas around here! After a week-long attack of the stomach bug and other germs, followed by a mild breakdown (by me, of course :), we are back on track! I have finished most of the Christmas shopping and wrapping, all of the decorating, and am ready to host a Cookie Swap tomorrow. We are very much in the spirit of things this year, and I am trying very hard to get it in my head that we do not have to do every possible thing every year. I figure that if whatever we get to do each year is enough, I will enjoy this time of the year so much more, instead of stressing out about it! I am also trying hard not to obsess over whether the girls will get too much/too little. Every year, I analyze every tiny gift, and wonder if it's too much and if I'm sending the wrong message to them about Christmas. This year, I am not letting that steal my joy of watching my 3 year old get excited about Christmas. She's 3 - not 7. To her, new toys are an exciting thing and she'll gladly take all she can get. I've decided it's unreasonable for me to expect her to care more about giving to others at this age, and we will gradually introduce traditions to teach that concept as she gets older.
We did get to go to a WONDERFUL lunch with Santa and Mrs. Clause today with some great friends. We were so honored to be invited, and had a fabulous meal with great company. The girls were a little bashful about sitting on Santa's lap, so we did a family pose this year! Enjoy the pictures (and a few from the last couple of weeks)!





Abby Kate turned 15 months on Dec. 2. It was a busy day, so I forgot to take her picture until the end of the day. Oh well - at least I got one!

Decorating the Christmas tree!


Have a great day!

3 comments:

Shanda said...

The girls get cuter every time I see their pictures. I miss them bunches!!! I keep praying we all stay well so we can get together wtih friends, but I'm thinking it may end up being after Christmas with everyone's schedules!!

We tried to do Santa pictures at school again this year. I was going to do just Gracie and Lizzy. Lizzy was having no part of that. So mommy ended up in Santa's lap too : ) Oh well its a memory I'll treasure.

Hope ya'll are feeling much better. I can't wait to see you guys again!! Love you!!!

Anonymous said...

Jessica, you are looking great! Great pictures of the whole family and girls too. I wish I looked that good while pregnant. I somehow lack in the glow department...LOL! As for how much the girls are getting for Christmas I completely understand your point of view...I too want my girls to realize its true meaning and so we talk about both God and Santa during time of year. The way I see it is a child's magical time and to see their faces light up is what its all about. We tend to go a little overboard during Christmas, but we don't usually buy them toys during the year (unless a bday they may get a little something), but this is the only time they get to receive the toys for the upcoming year that is age appropriate so I don't feel so guilty. Take care and enjoy the holiday season. Rosi

Margaret Anne said...

How cute!!! Thanks so much!
Got your message a few days ago. Call again when you have alot of time! Have lots to tell. Have a great weekend!