Friday, December 26, 2008

Scenes from Our Christmas

Christmas was a wonderful day. Even more so, we have truly enjoyed to the fullest each day leading up to it. I was almost not ready to see Christmas actually arrive, because we have been taking the time to be restful and at peace, rather than being too busy and frantic about preparations. As a result, our family has spent many a cozy evening just being together, or playing outside with our horses and other animals, or visiting with friends. Its been wonderful! (After a very crazy beginning of the month, we learned our lesson!)

We went to my parents' house for Christmas eve dinner and gift exchange. Here are the the girls in front of my parents' tree. We do this picture traditionally each year!

One of my favorite decorations in our home. This Victorian St. Nick is over 3 ft tall. He has really grown on us, and is the first decoration we put up each year. He is ceremoniously carried down the stairs from the attic and placed carefully. Then we issue warnings to each cat to NOT nibble his beard this year.

My snowman collection. I add a new one each year, and it takes up our entire long windowsill. I love them all, and leave them up long after Christmas! Here are just a few.

This one is my favorite, because he has real "branches" for arms, and the cutest "snowboy" cap and smile. He is everyone's favorite.

The girls opened up gifts from Grandma Sue and Grandpa Bob in Washington, first. They were so delighted by their Trail of Painted Pony collector's horses!

Opening gifts from my parents, who came over Christmas morning to deliver gifts, and get their annual (Chena invention) hot cocoa with egg nog.

Penelope got a mini American Girl Doll Kirsten, from Chena. Chena was sooooo excited to order it, wait for it, and could not WAIT to give it to her. Penelope, my dog lover! Merry Christmas, everyone!

7 comments:

Andi (RrlScrapGal) said...

Oh what a wonderful Christmas!!!!

You know.. we have LOTS in common! Wish you were closer!!!

1. I have an ADORABLE Snowman that matches your set! I will have to post him for you... The bottom says it's a Carver's Choice and it's #4E/1585 - a Boyd's Bear paw and 98 OE R CC2.. He has two adorable black boots hanging from his arms, a scarf and hat, and a heart on his chest and on the boots!!!! How do I know all this??? He is within arms reach at my desk!!! Definitely one of my faves..
2. I have a beautiful Santa that is one of my favorites too! He's actually a tree topper, but he gets to hang out with my Christmas Boyds Bear collection...
3. Rabbits... We got my dd two dutch bunny girls and a boy rabbit for Christmas! I'm going to need a lot of advice! They are in one hutch but separated - 2 compartments.. The girls are so adorable!

LOVE your header!
Merry Merry Christmas!

twinmamabee said...

Wonderful pictures and sounds like your Christmas was a truly blessed time. Your girls looks so happy with all of their presents - how special!

I like the handpainted horses, those are really cool!

Lori said...

Penelope looks so cuddly sweet and warm and happy opening that sweet present from Chena!
I can just picture Chena being a chef someday or the author of a cookbook or a tv cooking show...
I'm so glad you had such a nice relaxing Christmas.
You are so good at keeping traditions going in the family. I read that children feel really secure when there are family traditions. This is so awesome Ger!

Helene said...

It sounds like you had a wonderful Christmas!! I love that you have traditions with your girls, like putting the Santa Clause figurine out as the first official Christmas decoration!

You have such beautiful girls!!! And thank you for your comment on my blog!

Farmchick said...

Thanks for stopping by my blog and for the sweet comment too! I really enjoyed reading through your blog...I will stop in and visit again. Hope you will do the same! Have a great day!!

Kim said...

I know what you mean about enjoying the days leading up to Christmas. There's so much more to the holiday than just opening gifts in the morning, isn't there?

Love the snowman collection!

Unknown said...

I love your snowman collection and I love that you can leave it up after Christmas. I leave my "Christmas" village up for a couple of months after Christmas too. Sometimes the winter can be so stark, it's nice to have a little something to decorate with. And, mini Kirsten was an EXCELLENT choice. :-D (Kirsten is my favorite American Girl :-P ) What a thoughtful gift and how nice that she enjoyed the "giving" so much!