Christmas

Christmas expectations can be hard to live up to. We try and keep it very low key around here and focus on the true meaning of Christmas and our Savior. I wanted the kids to experience a little more of the true spirit of giving. Every year we put all our names in a "hat" and each draw one out and that is who we give a gift too. This year I decided we would do handmade gifts for each other. I wanted the family to think of individual personalities and really put some thought, time and effort into the gift. We started off a little rocky, but with a little bit of help from mom, they all pulled it off beautifully! Dylan made a book safe for George. Martha made some jewelry for Shelby. Eliza painted a work of art for Martha. Tommy sewed a small blanket for Eliza's dolls. Mike made Dylan a paracord bracelet with a compass attached to it. Shelby made me a decorative jar light. I made Tommy a velcro dart board. George sewed a Superman pillowcase for Mike. I am proud at the thought that went into the gifts. I was pleasantly surprised at how well they knew each other. My other favorite part of the holiday, aside from my husband being under the same roof as me, was my parents being with us. It was so wonderful to have them here and share the holiday with us. I love living closer to them and my siblings. Since the move to Idaho I have seen ALL of my siblings, and parents, multiple times! I am loving it.