Christmas Day in the Morning

We were so busy enjoying our morning, that we don't have a lot of photographic evidence of the proceedings.  That's probably a good thing though.  It means we were all happy and busy with giving and receiving.  It was a nice Christmas this year.  Santa found all three girls names on the "nice" list, and brought them what they asked for.  (Except maybe Avery, who is still holding out hope for a new phone...at least she can understands Santa's reasoning for waiting a little longer...)

This year, Parker has understood so much more about Christmas.  She has been so observant and interested in the stories and traditions.  In particular, she was so obsessed with the concept of all the children being on Santa's "Nice" or "Naughty" list.  It definitely doesn't help that she has older sisters who are constantly holding this guilt trip over her head when she misbehaves.  "Do you want to be on the Nice list, Parker?"  "Santa's going to put you on the Naughty list, is that what you really want, huh, huh?!?"  It caused her a bit of fear and panic, I'm afraid.  But that's the role of youngest in the family in many ways, I think. 

We have a stuffed reindeer that was actually given to us by an elf when Maryn was a baby (I'm not even kidding) at a store in Boise where we went to talk to Santa one year.  Ever since, we've used the same idea as the "Elf on a Shelf" with our little stuffed reindeer.  He was given to us by one of Santa's elves to watch the girls as Christmas approaches and will occasionally move around the house in order to get a good view, and report his findings.  So, needless to say, Parker has definitely been aware of Mr. Reindeer this year.  It was cute.

She asked Santa for a Belle doll, and some new Tag books. 

Maryn asked Santa for a Harry Potter Snuggy.  She is finally officially in the House of GRIFFINDOR!  Haha!  Also, if you know Maryn, you know she is always cold, so this is pretty much her dream come true!

As you can see, Avery is too busy reading one of her new books to even smile for the camera.

We are grateful that everyone was happy, and that we can enjoy another Christmas as a family.  We have plenty of blessings and gifts to be thankful for this year.  Many of which include my sweet family and friends.  I miss you all and love you, and hope your holidays were filled with lots of warmth and cheer!!