It’s all about the Memories.

I love the kids face when they see what was brought for them.

I think the anticipation of what’s inside is where the magic lies.

Santa brought our family a kindle HD. We are having lots of fun with it.

We tried to stick to our normal four gifts:

Something you want. Something you need. Something to wear, and Something to read.

We have done this since Jex was a baby.

This year we kind of failed miserably at keeping to that.

Oh. well. We will try again next year.

I think I started buying too early; and then forgot what I had bought.

Next year, I think I will start shopping on December 17th or so; and then my memory won’t fail me. (wink wink)

Along with the gifts from us; grandparent, aunts, uncles and cousins sent gifts to be placed under the tree.

It was nice to feel their love; even while we were so far away.

My favorite moment was watching them play with it all.

While I was making breakfast, Jex was riding his rip stick through the kitchen. Isaac was building Legos in the dining room, and Stella was giving Tess a pedicure in her new pink tent.

AWE. the memories.

Jonathan had a great Christmas as well. His favorite gift was his new acoustic guitar.

Which he is teaching himself to play with a little help from you tube. It is so fun listening to him play and sing.

Of course, my husband spoiled me. He surprised me with a massage table.

(taken with my iphone)

I have had some upper shoulder/neck problems this year. Instead of buying me a year’s worth of massage he brought the table to me. What a thoughtful gift. He is the sweetest man; and best husband EVER.

He also surprised me with a new coat, and concert tickets.

My sister sent this beautiful necklace. It says I love you to the moon and back. Which is something I say to my kids everyday. It also has all their names on it. I cried.

Speaking of. You can download this little printable here. I have had it in my house for quite some time.

Here what it looks like in our new house.

I also made this print for Valentines, and since it is right around the corner; you might be interested in it.

Can be found here.

I hope you had a wonderful holiday.

Ours was beautiful and memorable.

Our kids have already started counting down the days until next year.

I have decided that they are not counting down because of the gifts; they are counting down because of the memories.

… and I love that; all the way to the moon and back.