a little pre-Christmas review

~ let's pretend she's wearing clothes ~

Christmas is almost here. Present opening starts tonight with Ryan's family, more presents tomorrow morning with my family, and a stocking with Ryan's parents tomorrow afternoon. Let the marathon begin (past marathons documented here, here, here, here, here, here, and here). 

But first...the buildup, and an undeniable overload of pictures.

Putting up the tree. The girls and Ryan were in charge of all ornament placement. And our tree is more decorated than ever before thanks to two crafty little girls. There's even a Fruit Loop garland. Noah (three weeks old at the time) slept on the couch. 

 

The girls painted lights on their own paper trees. One very neat girl, and one messy girl who isn't wearing clothes for a reason. 

 

We made ornaments from a baking soda, cornstarch, and water mixture (recipe here). They cracked and didn't turn out exactly as planned but it was fun. I hope a solid coat of Mod Podge will help our little thumbprint reindeer family survive at least a few years. 

 

 

And once again, Noah slept. He is a good baby. A very good baby. 

It has been a good, full, heart warming month. We also opened new pajamas last night (pictures to come), made candy walnuts (I can't stop eating them), and the girls made cookies with Grammy and ornaments with Nonny E. Yes, it's been a very full month...lots of projects and lots of time spent together. 

We have a lot to be grateful for, and a lot to look forward to. I hope we are teaching the kids to appreciate the season, family time together, and the spirit of giving more than the presents they are about to receive. Laci has spent much of her time the last few weeks making cards, drawing pictures, and stringing bracelets, always adding, "This is for so and so." She has a generous heart, and, like her momma, loves to give things made with her own hands. I'd say this means we're doing a pretty good job. 

Merry Christmas!