A Holly Jolly Christmas

This was Mike's year to work Christmas eve and Christmas night so , though we got in all of our favorite traditions, things were kinda rushed and we all missed him so much. Thankfully, one of his co-workers came in early for him Christmas morning and, despite the fact that it had snowed over night, Mike got home at 7:15- in time to wake Mackenzie up!
Santa brought Mackenzie an easel complete with art supplies galore. I think this has been my favorite gift of hers ever for her expression. She just couldn't believe that Santa thought of her and knew her so well. She explained " I WISHED for this !" for nearly every item she saw. I knew Santa's gift would be very hard to top and nothing evoked the same response at the easel ( although the microscope from Grams came pretty close!) but she commented on how much she loved each item after that and gave "Thank you" hugs and kisses after she'd opened everything.

Busy boy Mason received several fun toys to keep those hands entertained. Big sister opened every present for him and he tried out each thing before moving on to the next. It's fun to think that next year will be even more exciting for everyone since Mason will be 20 months old.

 

 

Mike was happy with the movies and games he got as well as a set of Legos for he and Mackenzie and lots of little stocking stuffers. He scurried off to bed as soon as we finished opening gifts so he could get up for dinner at my moms at 4:30.

I was spoiled with lots of perfumes and photography goodies! I can't wait to try these new things out!

Mackenzie and Mason had a bit of time to play with their new things while I found new homes for all the Christmas gifts, got breakfast ready and packed up the van. Last thing was to get them both in and out to moms. This was so much work with just two hands and so much to do and with fresh snow on the roads. I have a great deal of respect for moms who do this kind of thing alone all the time. Mike is a partner in every way and I really miss him when he isn't here.

The gang ,minus our beloved Arizona Hansfords ,gathered at my parents house for brunch and presents and dinner. There were the usual moments of chaos but, all in all, it was a nice , quiet day. The kids were happy to share their gifts with each other and Mason was spoiled with kisses. We all left when the sun went down with full bellies and a van full of goods!

Kaleb and Mackenzie playing their games

Mack enjoying more duck! She's wearing the adorable apron
My mom made her, complete with paint brush slots aplenty!

Dad and Clay tending to dinner

Mom and Dad got Mike the Chef's jacket he's always wanted
as well as a food processor! Between that and the duck dad
cooked just for him, he was a happy camper.