Christmas 2011

This years Christmas was wonderful.

It flew by way too fast, as it always does...and now I am just bummed it is over.

For a recap:

We got Alyssa for the week prior, and made the most of each moment.

Each day and night was filled with Christmas wrapping, projects, and traditions.

The first night, we did a mini "Gingerbread Decorating" night.  Since Brandon wouldn't be able to make the Annual Gingerbread Party, we put all of his supplies to good use and decorated cookies and brownies.

 Then we did our downtown Seattle Shopping and looking at the lights and big tree...and of course a ride on the Carousel.

 The boys loved the carousel, but the tickets for some reason were the big hit.

 We had our Annual Gingerbread House Decorating Night at Chris and Amanda's. 

Amanda went all out and the food and houses were amazing.

 The kids enjoyed several Christmas movies and a few games, while we were busy decorating the gingerbread.

 Then for my favorite tradition...going to Seattle for dinner and the A.C.T.'s A Christmas Carol.

It was excellent as always. But the poor babysitter had her arms full, as Landon kept sneaking out of bed and hiding around the house until almost midnight.

 Then for Christmas Eve we had an amazing dinner, some games, the Christmas story,
and the boys got their new pajamas.

Then, a visit from Santa Claus! Landon was thrilled, and acted as if they had been friends forever.

After leading him to the family room, he asked for "A bike from Walmart." (he has expensive taste)

Mason was rather interested in Santa's beard and couldn't take his eyes off of him.

 Then Christmas morning...

Christmas on a Sunday sure changes things.  With 9:00am church, we struggled to get out on time.  We had to wake the kids up and they got to open their stockings.  The rest of the gifts were for after church, but the two bikes under the tree somehow found their way out before we left.

 Finally, after church and a Christmas Brunch we headed to the living room to open the gifts.

Mason didn't last long, he needed a nap.  But Landon was in heaven and could have opened gifts all night.

 The day was a hit.  Mason was thrilled with his "noisy" toys.  Brandon took his usual nap, but somehow fell asleep on the stair. Cameron's fiance Kate and her parents came for Christmas.  They are the sweetest people and fit perfectly in the family.

 And our traditional picture of our Christmas pajamas.  Brandon actually got ready for the day, so he isn't wearing his. And good old Cameron always has to throw in a funny picture. 

Overall, Christmas was amazing. And kids make it so much fun.

It is the best time of year...I am already looking forward to next year!