Family Christmas decoration party

This year I decided to start a tradition. We always decorate for Christmas this time of year, but I wanted to make it a little more special.

First thing in the morning we got dressed in our Christmas clothes, the kids drank hot cocoa with candy cane spoons, we decorated the Christmas tree and mantel, danced to Christmas music, read Christmas books, watched a Christmas movie, then made ugly Christmas sweater cookies from scratch. To say I was beat by the end of the day is an understatement. Did I have plenty of other things to do that day? Yes. Oh my goodness, yes. I'm actually drowning in work right now. The last thing I wanted to do was take a day off. But I knew I had to fit this family day in no matter how much work was pending. Littles turn into bigs... and before I know it they will be teenagers and adults and these fleeting moments will become simply memories.

Our day was chaotic, messy, and lovely all at the same time. 

Starting traditions and making memories with my little family makes my heart beat a little faster as I watch the sparkle in their eyes. I almost didn't post some of these pictures because it showed the messy parts of my house, but then I decided to show them anyways. Dirty dishes and dusty mantles have nothing on sweet baby giggles and hot chocolate stained faces. 

Some adorable quotes that brought a smile to my face throughout the day were...

"I believe in Jesus, mom." -Peter

"This was the best day ever!" -Sitora

"I like the ribbon you wrapped around the railing, mom, but what would really look good is if you added some lights." -Peter

"I don't feel like I should have to do school on a fun Christmas day like today, mom." -Sitora

"My favorite thing today was decorating cookies. No wait, my favorite thing today was eating cookies!"-Peter

"Oooooo... Ahhhhh!"- Benjamin pointing to the Christmas tree

To my loves,

I will never quit fighting for you, serving you, pursuing you, loving you, praying for you, sacrificing for you, laughing with you, and holding you tight. 

Love, 

Mom