I really struggled to get into the Christmas spirit this year. It’s not unusual for me to be a bit of a grinch this time of year, but this year I especially struggled. I’ve felt the need to feel my Savior’s love stronger than any other Christmas as we’ve dealt with the responsibility of being caretakers, hostility towards Noel’s profession,* and being hit repeatedly with sickness after sickness.** Even though I’ve felt many small moments of reassurance, I have not felt particularly merry or bright. I’m so grateful for my children though. Because of them, we’ve gone through the motions of celebrating and even though I’m not particularly sad to say goodbye to this Christmas season, I think the kids truly had a wonderful time and brought a little bit of light into our lives at a much needed time.
*Sadly, I’m not just talking about stuff you read in the news, but from actual people we know and associate with.
**As I’m writing this I’m cradling Ellen whose body seems to be exorcising everything she ate in the last 24 hours.
Reindeer Cooper made with his fifth grade buddy at school.
Ellen on the bus for her first field trip.
It was an interactive Nutcracker. Here she’s throwing gumdrops at the Mouse King.
Here she is being protected by the girl who played Marie.
Here is Cooper pretending to be Santa Claus. Anytime someone called him Santa he’d say, “I’m not Santa, I’m Cooper!”
Kids on our Christmas Eve light walk.
The kids loved the lights.
Here I am.
We told the kids we would only look at our stockings before church. They were really good about it.
Cooper saw these Lightning McQueen glasses when we were waiting in line at the pharmacy. (We go there a lot now for my MIL.) He was so excited to get them.
Ellen kept telling us she was wanted a Minnie Mouse Guitar for Christmas. Luckily I was able to help my MIL find one to give her.
Ellen jamming out.
Noel and Cooper jamming out on the guitars the kids got from Grandma Glenna and Grandpa Mike.
Aunt Danielle got the kids cameras and it’s been selfie central ever since.
It’s a little blurry, but Ellen giving Aunt Danielle a hug.
Ellen hugging her kitty from Grandma Cindy and Grandpa Wayne.
Cooper checking out his binoculars from Great Grandma Olsen.
Kids hugging after opening their presents from each other.
Ellen got some dance ribbons from Annie and Greg and had to try them out immediately.
The kids were so excited about all their presents.
Cooper opening up some legos.
This one is also blurry, but I still love the smiles.
Ellen hugging a present.
Charlie loved the clutter of boxes and wrapping paper. He was in cat heaven.
Cooper opening up a cool present from Grandma Cindy and Grandpa Wayne.
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One thought on “Christmas 2016”
People being pickles about Noel’s work: yikes, I’m sorry. Manners matter, people.
Cooper’s reindeer is awesome.
Ellen’s 2nd guitar picture: I can totally see her as a rock star. Prepare yourself. 😉
Our family did the same light walk but earlier in the month – little Will loved it, too.
One thought on “Christmas 2016”
People being pickles about Noel’s work: yikes, I’m sorry. Manners matter, people.
Cooper’s reindeer is awesome.
Ellen’s 2nd guitar picture: I can totally see her as a rock star. Prepare yourself. 😉
Our family did the same light walk but earlier in the month – little Will loved it, too.
{{Hugs}}