Christmas in Maryland

We were so lucky to have a household for Christmas this year, even though we live across the country from most of our family.  My mom and dad came out to help us with new baby James. Our timing was so perfect that we were able to steal them for Christmas as well.  Not to mention that we were able to 'convince' Emily to come celebrate with us too!

It was fun to decorate our own home for Christmas.  We went to a church nearby and bought a live tree that was absolutely beautiful.  I think the last time I remember having a live tree was when I was in elementary school.  I love the smell in our home... not necessarily remembering to water it every day and cleaning up the needles though.

Carl has really taken to James.  Any time that James is crying, Carl is right there to talk to him or swing him or 'offer' him a diaper.  Aren't they just the perfect Christmas gift?

We have had such a blast having mom and dad visiting us.  Mom has been wonderful to help around the house and give extra attention to James and Carl. She is working on an adorable baby quilt for James while she's been here. Not to mention we have gotten a little addicted to "Ticket to Ride" while she's been here.  

Dad has been so good to run errands for me and fix a few things around the house.  He and Preston even re-did my kitchen table and chairs (pictures to come).  Carl has been spoiled with a little one on one time McDonald's runs and walks with Grandpa.  

Well, we haven't gotten much snow here in Maryland (especially compared to everyone back home in Utah).  In fact, our first snow fall came on Christmas Eve afternoon/evening.  So this was our "White Christmas"!  Absolutely perfect.

And lo and behold!  Guess who found our house?  Santa Claus!  Carl was so excited for Christmas this year.  He would walk around the house and wish everyone (and everything) "Merry Christmas!"  On Christmas Eve night, Carl and Preston made some special cookies for Santa.  And boy did he like them!  He even left us a little note behind.

Carl has been asking for trains for a long time and every time someone asked him what he wanted for Christmas, he always mentioned "TRAINS!"  So you can only imagine his excitement when he woke up to this awesome train table and trains Christmas morning.  

Santa found everyone at our home!  Everyone had their stockings filled to the top with goodies and presents.  In fact, we were all spoiled with nice gifts (especially Carl).  We were so fortunate this year.

My favorite part about Christmas morning was the delicious breakfast that Emily made for us.  We had apple and pumpkin ebelskivers. Mmmm.... They were absolutely delicious with maple whipped cream and nutella on top.  Now that's MY kind of breakfast.

This Christmas season I am reminded of the many blessings that we have.  I am so grateful for our family, both extended and our own little family of our own.  Who would have thought that in a small five years, my life would change from "just me" to a family of four.  I am also grateful for Preston's wonderful job and the company that he is working for.  He is such a hard worker and great supporter of our family.  I am grateful for our home and the area in which we live.  Though it is far away from our families, we feel so fortunate to be here at this time.  I am most grateful for the gospel in my life.  I know that I am far from perfect and have so much to improve upon, but I feel so blessed to have the knowledge that Christ lives and that he loves me. I am reminded of that especially this season of the year and hope to continually remind my children that though Santa Claus loves them and brings them gifts each Christmas morning, Christ loves them and offers us gifts every day.  Merry Christmas to all!