It's A Wonderful Life

As the month of December comes to an end, we’ve continued all of our fun even after the Christmas holiday.  We celebrated my beautiful Mama’s 60th birthday with a big family dinner at Marketplace. The grands had a big sleepover at Mimi and Pawpaw’s while Matt and I enjoyed at quiet date night at Pressroom.  We went to see the movie “Ferdinand” (which was adorable), and we enjoyed some relaxing days at home all snuggled in pajamas and playing with new toys.  It was perfection!

This holiday season might be the BEST I can remember.  It wasn't about the toys, but about making Christmas memories.  Riding the Polar Express and seeing the eyes of my children sparkle, spending the day at SDC in awe of all of the Christmas lights, sticking with tradition and going to the Bentonville and Fayetteville squares to eat and look at lights, Christmas programs, giving back to those in need, visiting Santa 1,2, maybe 3 times. :)  This year was more magical to me than any other year. Honestly, I am so sad to see it go.

Instead of wishing I could freeze time though, I'm going to try to remember this motto for life.... I read this from a friend's post on Instagram and thought it was brilliant. 

"There is MORE. We are the keepers of the secret power of recognizing and creating celebrations among ordinary days, and that power lasts all year.  Everything we love about this season is scattered throughout the rest of the year too--opportunities for gathering, music, giving, and gratitude. How many sunsets will take our breath away this year?  How many nights will we fall asleep feeling warm and full and loved?  How many adventures await us?  There is so much to look forward to."

As 2017 comes to a close, I am so grateful.  I'm grateful for all the blessings the Lord has put in our life.  I pray that 2018 has nothing but health and happiness for us all.


Happy New Year Friends!

Christmas Blessings

Christmas morning never disappoints! Santa delivered exactly what they asked for.  Reese received lots of Calico Critters, and Brooks got his Paw Patrol Tower. Our stockings were stuffed full of lots of treats too. Jovie even had a load of goodies waiting on her when she woke up.  We always open presents from each other and spend the morning playing before we get around and go to Mimi and Pawpaw's house.  

Santa always stops at Mimi and Pawpaw's and leaves a big gift for the grands. After everyone scoped out what Santa had left at their house, we opened our presents and spent the entire day together.  Mom made a ham with potatoes, corn, green beans, 2 salads, rolls, and a few different desserts for dinner that night.  It was delicious!!  Afterwards, we had a contest to see who could make the best gingerbread house, listened to the kids sing Christmas kareoke, and just enjoyed being together. 

Such a magical day that I am thankful for every single year. I hope you and yours had a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!  

Christmas Eve

We were all excited to get up and go to church on Christmas Eve.  Our church did a candlelight service that morning at 9:00 and then no services that evening.  It was so beautiful with all the candles lit and singing praises to our Lord made it unforgettable.

On Christmas Eve we always go to Landon and Brandi's house to enjoy Christmas games, eat TONS of Christmas goodies, and (of course) partake in the highly anticipated marshmallow fight. I wish I would've taken more photos, but we were having too much fun. It's the best time with friends and family, and we look forward to it every year!!

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Christmas Scavenger Hunt

And...Jack scribbled on his nose with a sharpie....

As soon as we got home, we made sure to put our reindeer food out. Brooks was really into it this year, trying to cover the whole yard. 

We had some VERY EXCITED kiddos ready for Santa to come!!