Christmas Recap 2015

Here is our Christmas recap 2015! Also known as my big fat Christmas post!

We were at Scott's parents for the holiday this year. It was a bit hectic getting on the road because I had school Monday, Tuesday, AND Wednesday and we tried to leave as soon as we could on Wednesday which resulted in a lot of frantic packing and crossing fingers everything would fit in the car (it did, barely). We also had a childcare scramble as our regular caregiver was off the whole week but luckily we were able to find care with the girl who helps her out sometimes. However, it did not go super well and we thought maybe the girls were sick, and the weather was kind of iffy leaving Wednesday night and once we were on the road we wondered why the heck didn't we just wait until morning?? It ended up being a smooth trip there and the whole holiday went well. The girls were on a sleep strike for days earlier in the week but did well while away from home so were feeling pretty good! When traveling with young children it seems like no matter how optimistic I try to be there is always "this could go terribly, horribly badly" lurking in the back of my head. 

We had some good family time at Scott's parents. My time was mostly spent referring the babies away from the Christmas tree but it was nice not to have anything on my agenda other than spend time with family. I especially enjoyed having a bit of down time during the girls naps- I even had a chance to sit down and play some Christmas carols with Michael on my mother in law's beautiful piano, something which is a real luxury of time these days. I also loved playing a duet with my niece and sister in law- all too fleeting and now I wish we had carved out more time for making music together! We all took turns preparing meals and I was pleased how easy my meals of cold breakfast (muffins, fruit, coffee, yogurt) and Christmas Eve snacks turned out. Nothing required any prep or kitchen time! 

We attended Christmas Eve service at Scott's family's church at 7pm. I was worried about the late time but the girls did marginally well. I did take them to the nursery towards the end of the service as they got a little noisy and distracting. I unfortunately missed the candlelight singing part but I guess there is always next year. I remember one year when we traveled out of town, I snuck out of the house to catch Hope's big Christmas Eve service by myself and it was quite lovely. As hectic as those services are, they are a part of my personal Christmas tradition and I love them!

Here are some photos in completely random order: 

Michael woke up not too early (7) on Christmas morning and was excited to see his pile of presents by the furnace. I was glad he had his cousin Ellie to share the Christmas magic with! 

His big gifts were a big Minecraft set (The Mine) and also some Pokemon cards. 

The girls got matching toy remotes (which they LOVE and I figured such as much as they love to steal and hide real ones), a vintage Fisher Price TV music box, xylophone and two new board books. 

With the help of about three adults we managed to get one (only one!) photo of all three of my children in their matching pjs!! 

We were also spoiled by Scott's parents and brothers and sisters with lots of lovely gifts. 

Christmas Eve spread- I made my traditional meatballs, veggie pizza, and chex mix. I also made strawberry pretzel salad but we never got it out as there were so many yummy goodies already. 

It was a really nice holiday and I'm glad we could spend it with family. I know Christmas can be a stressful time for me and others and I tried to keep my many blessings in the forefront of my mind this season. We are excited to see what 2016 brings!