Its Beginning To Look Alot Like Christmas!

It has been several weeks since I posted, mostly because every time I sit down to do so, someone wants to play a computer game or someone hit someone, or something like that. Anyway I am very excited for Christmas, it is my favorite time of year. I love the sights, the sounds, the smells, the shopping!!!! It is seriously wonderful! We are trying really hard this year to help our kids understand that the real meaning of Christmas is a lot more than Santa and presents, but it is hard when every other day a new "toy book" ( target, toys r us) comes in the mail. This is followed by days of fighting over who gets to take it to bed with them, and also I want this, I want this etc etc. I can't blame them though. I remember getting the JCPenney catalog when I was a kid and circling everything I wanted in it.
I am happy to report that the shopping is done and so is the most of the wrapping. I was determined to be finished by early December so, I could lay that stress behind me and enjoy the spirit of the season. The only problem is keeping the kiddies out of my closet. I did a good job of hiding everything, but my kids are sneaky. I guess I had that coming to me since that is how I was, and sometimes still am ( about gifts that is.)
The tree is up. We went last weekend to a tree farm and cut one down. The kids loved the tractor ride and the watered down cocoa to drink afterwards. It is not totally decorated yet, because we have been quite busy. It will have all the ornaments on by christmas I promise.
I hope you all have an enjoyable season. The only sad part is that it comes and goes way to fast!!!!
Here are a few pics of the last couple of weeks
Dad putting up the lights

Riding the tractor to pick the tree

Our gingerbread house

Claire posing in her Christmas get-up