Chrsitmas and a New Year

We had a very small Christmas this year. Sometimes those are the best, I think. Not too much "stuff." By eliminating "the stuff" you are able to focus on its real meaning.

Kate asked me, "Mom, why do we celebrate Christmas?" I was a little shocked because I thought we have pounded into their little brains why. I reminded her it was to celebrate Jesus' birth.

She looked right at me and said, "No, Mom. Jesus' birth is in April, so why are we doing it in December?" She had a good point. So we had to explain how come the world chose to celebrate it in December. Now I think she's more confused than she was before!!! Poor thing.

Thought I'd share what the kids got for Jesus' un-birthday celebration and a few pictures.

Every Christmas Eve we open pajamas. We alternate every other year giving either books or slippers. this year it was slippers. We also have our traditional gifts for Jesus that we put under the tree. We then watch Joy to the World.


Santa did find our house. The boys got shotguns. They are excited to go trap shooting with their dad. I think we should make it a family event, I love it too.

All the girls wanted were pillow pets. It was #1 on their list. They got them. Santa decided to throw in some Zuh-Zuh Pets stuff for Grace, a "laptop" for Kate, and a radio/cd player for Becca. they were very happy!

Ryan also got his beloved Axis vs. Allies game and a huge Nerf gun!!



Aaron got a new football with a pump and a kicker's thing, and the same Nerf gun Ryan got. they are having some great battles!


Grace had a Zhu-Zhu and Barbie Christmas. She got more pets and and houses. She finally got a new Belle doll. This one came with a horse. She loved it.



Kate got a bean bag chair. Next to best buy after the pillow pet! She also received a new Club Penguin penguin and a Hiccup sword! Yes, my girl asked for a sword!! She loved that too!



Becca is in love with the mini My Little Ponies. She got a cute little Ferris wheel. She also got new furniture for her doll house and a Strawberry Shortcake RC car.




Dustin and I got a cruise. That cruise will take the place of every gift for a while!! I got a new crock pot. And Dustin got new pillows!! Doesn't sound exciting, but we were both quite happy. We also got a Flip camcorder from his parents and a very cool emergency radio from my mom.

I am excited for the new year. I can;t believe it is 2011!! I made the comment that we should be like the Jetsons by now! This time just always seemed so far away while growing up, but here it is. I look forward to the new adventures it will bring. I wish everyone a prosperous year as well!