Christmas Day.

We spent Christmas morning at our house seeing what Santa had left us and opening our gifts. Shortly before noon we headed over to grandma and granddaddy's house. There were more presents to open and lots of yummy food. We spent the whole day there eating and visiting and playing. We even held the annual football game despite the chill in the air! It is such fun to live so close to some of our family. It's hard to believe that we spent 10 years living far away. What a blessing it is to be here.

there are times when I hate always thinking about pictures. sometimes I just don't want to always have the camera and make sure I am getting that perfect shot. then I look at my pictures and am upset with the results. Christmas Day was kind of like that for me this year....

christmas eve breakfast.

Pictures with timers are not typically the greatest. this occasion was no exception. however, no matter how imperfect the photo, it will serve as the perfect reminder of one of my favorite traditions since we've lived here. I look forward to our breakfast with the Hormans. My kids look forward to it as well. None of us is ever disappointed. I love the food. I love the people. I love the way I feel when I am with them.

Jammies and Slippers.

Christmas Eve Jammies and Slippers. My mom is the best.

christmas.

Most of you have moved well beyond Christmas. But my blog is a little behind...

birthday.

My birthday is always our kick-off to the holidays. My big 34. This year it occurred on our first day of Christmas vacation. It was nice to have a lazy morning at home with no need to hurry out the door.

I truly hate pictures of myself, but I love seeing pictures of my mom during my growing up years. So this one is for my kids.

Dear Santa

I know you've already made half your deliveries and you may be at my house any minute, but I have a few last minute requests for you. You see, I've been feeling quite inadequate lately when it comes to my mothering abilities so I need you to fill my stocking with patience, unselfishness, and lots more "know-how". When my kids were all little, I was a confident mama. Babies and toddlers were all I had ever seen in my dreams of motherhood. Now my kids are getting big and I am kind of feeling like a fish out of water. I would love to start swimming again. I'm counting on you to help me out here. And while you're delivering at my house, feel free to indulge me. I would love to wake up to happy children who love each other (and act like it) oh, for like the rest of their lives. Is that too much to ask?

Christmas Eve.

On the Eve of Christmas...

Mitchel: I know Santa really won't bring me a bulldog. That's okay. (whew!!)

Ashley: I am going to try to sleep with my fingers crossed all night that Santa brings me Kaya, the American Girl Doll.

Coleman: Am I on the nice list? Cause if you are on the naughty list you don't get good presents. I don't want junk.
Mom: you are on the nice list.
Coleman: Yes!

Justin: I am excited for tomorrow. I don't have to get what was on my list. I know it was last minute. I'll like anything.