Rule #139: Santa really is the most jolly ole fella.
This Christmas was one for the books! Having a three-year-old and a three-month-old is definitely a serious season of life, especially during the holiday season.
We gave the Pictures with Santa gig a try again this year. As you can see, it wasn’t the greatest hit for Corey. Santa suggested we take a family picture when Corey kept running away from the couch he was sitting on. Here’s the result:
Can we just call it like it is: EPIC!? But, the really sweet memory came after we solidified those horrific memories in picture form. Santa started making small talk with Corey and Jon Boy as I was paying. Eventually, it led to Santa giving Corey a jingle bell from his sleigh (just like from Coreys’ favorite movie: Polar Express). It was the most precious little scene we could’ve asked for. They threw in the digital file of the shot for us for free (I think out of pity). It’s definitely frame-worthy. But then again, so is that first one…
Brooke is already a very avid shopper and makes every errand a little more fun. She was my big helper this Christmas Season and always agreed with my purchases. I throw her in the little carrier, and we march on through our day. (Also – seriously this is the best sweatshirt ever. I also bought one similar in camo – Medium in both.)
I’m also loving this super cute tunic sweater (Amazon Find!!) and this simple layered necklace.
Jon Boy and I were lucky enough to sneak away for a little Holiday Date Night at our fave – Blue Fish Sushi. We almost cancelled because we were so tired. I’m so glad we pushed through and went instead.
Corey’s class Christmas Party was absolutely adorable. Why can’t they keep these cute parties going all through college? I can totally see him as a little frat boy rocking this same Rudolph Hat.
Jon Boy and I were super stoked to sport our Christmas Vacation t-shirts this year. It was a fun way to really class-up our Christmas PJ’s!
We got to spend Christmas Morning with my Momma. We’re very lucky she lives so close to us now! I think Brooke approves, too.
Jon Boy asked to have a biggo Turkey Dinner for Christmas. I didn’t want to worry about doing the whole big thing on Christmas Eve (we opt for Thai or Chinese after church), so we did it on Christmas Eve Eve. Here’s what was on the menu (and disclaimer: it ain’t healthy):
Citrus and Peppercorn Dry Brined Turkey
Chocolate Gooey Butter Cookies
A few days later, we had Turkey Gumbo with the leftover turkey. I don’t know about you, but the leftovers are my favorite part of big dinners. It’s like the big meal isn’t over for days!
We ventured out Christmas Eve as a biggo Party of 4 and went to Big Church. We all made it through without any temper tantrums or fits (the kids were great, too). This was the best picture we could get, but I’ll take it. Maybe next year our kids will look like they love Christmas?
We got to have Christmas dinner at my in-law’s this year. It was filled with lots of laughs, kid-centered chaos, and great food. My sister-in-laws (missing one!) are absolutely gorgeous inside and out!
I have to say this was my favorite Christmas yet even in the midst of chaos, exhaustion, and all that good stuff. I’m hoping next year we can plan more and get organized and stay on top of things (ha, yeah right)!
