A Christmas to Remember

This Christmas was a little more laid back, or at least it felt that way. Completely wonderful. Relaxing. Fun.

In short – exactly what we had hoped and wanted it to be.

This Christmas we scaled back on the gifts and focused more as a family on giving more to others than we did to ourselves.

Christmas Eve we surprised my parents with a visit from one of my brothers. Can you tell that his visit was enjoyed by his nephews?

There was excitement watching others opening their gifts…

Thrilled responses to gifts that were meant to be enjoyed together…

Even a thrilled little kitty who could finally quit ripping open all of the wrapping paper underneath the tree and play with a real gift {just for him}.

Today the tree came down and we are packing up the last of the Christmas decorations. As much as I enjoy the fullness and color that all of the decorations add to the house, there is something to be said for the open and clean feeling in the house when everything has been put away.

Merry {belated} Christmas from our family to yours – and Happy New Year too!