Getting Ready

Christmas is coming and we are getting ready! The tree is up and trimmed, the house is decorated and Oliver's Advent Calendar with nativity scene is growing with each day. 

As mentioned in the "Three-Ring Circus" post, things have been rather busy here lately. We have managed, somehow, to visit no less than THREE Santas, however. The first was our more official visit at Ridgedale Mall (still can't get the formal photo to download, of course). 

The second was at the annual Brooklyn Park Lion's Club waffle breakfast, where we visited Santa last year. 

The third was the day after the waffle breakfast, at family brunch.

Though there has been plenty of Santa and talking of gifts this season, we have also spent time reflecting on the true reason for our joy during Christmastime. One of the ways Oliver did that was singing in the kid's choir during church earlier in December. The kids were adorable and I have enjoyed hearing him sing Happy Birthday Jesus around the house for the past several weeks. 

Don't worry, he's not making funny faces! Just a beat off on transitioning to the baby sign. :)

Cookies have yet to be made, but Oliver is not running out of sugary snacks to enjoy. Here is a post ring pop photo he insisted I snap, rounded out with a McDonald's toy on his head. We were also in the process of decorating our first gingerbread house....which turned out a bit sad looking and not worthy of a blog photo! Maybe next time. 

Goofy

I am excited to celebrate Christmas, though the warmer-than-usual temperatures and lack of snow has made it a bit difficult to really get into the spirit. While I grew up without white Christmases, I quickly got used to it and truly enjoy having one. Hopefully that will still happen....along with time to bake up some cookies!

Hopefully your holiday season is going well and you are able to enjoy time with friends and family.