Christmas 2013

Christmas.

Snowy drive.
Surprise arrival.
Candlelight service.
Hymns sung in harmony.
Amen's expressed.
Hand-made pajamas in stripes.
Gifts shared.
Exclamations of thanks.
Piles of presents awaiting.
Stockings hung with care.

Early cuddling.
Christmas cartoons in bed.
Stockings explored and dudes revealed.
Candy devoured!
Wonderful chaos.
Hectic.
Wrapping paper shredded, peeled, ripped, mangled.
Happy cries of delight.
Toys played with immediately.
Favorites frequently changed with each new unveiling
Love shared
Smiles
Thank you hugs freely given.

Family visited
Cookies on display within reach of little hands
One cookie in the mouth and hand outstretched for another
More hugs and pats on the back
Lots of laughter
New baby to smile at
So many people in such a small space, but room for all
Gifts and gifts and gifts passed out
Shouting and glee
Photos taken
Books to read
Crockpots of food to share
Bandit begging for scraps
Bellies full
Children playing
Delight in just holding my sons
Winding down
Packing the car
Tears of tiredness
Hugs goodbye
Cookies for the road
Just one more hug and kiss
A long drive home
Bedtime early

The day is done.
All of our lives are a bit richer
I love my family
I love the holidays
I love the peace of the evening after the day is done.

Preparing for Christmas

Wrapping is done.

Cookies have been baked.

Santa has been visited.

I think we are ready.