Christmas 2010

This year, we tried out a new Christmas tradition....a Christmas Eve dinner and gift exchange with my family.  In years past, we have tried to be 3 places in one day, which required a very early morning of getting up before the kids to get ready/pack, and going about the day in a whirlwind pace. We enjoyed exchanging presents a little early, feasting on  steak, shrimp and salad, and getting extra time with our families to celebrate.  (Warning: picture and video overload ahead....be sure to pause my playlist to the right before viewing videos).

Christmas Eve:

We left out treats for Santa and his reindeer, and got the kids all snug in their beds.  Then it was time to finish wrapping presents and make breakfast for the morning.....oh and manage to squeeze in a few hours of sleep!

Christmas Morning:

We woke up to the sweet sounds of Mackenzie saying "Merry Christmas Mom and Dad, and Happy Holidays!" She snuggled with us in bed until we heard Caleb on the monitor and then we headed down for presents, followed by breakfast casserole.

 

  Christmas Day:                                                                                                                                           

Then we loaded up and hit the road to see the Buzzard clan.  It was so fun to see the little ones excitement as they unwrapped their presents together.  After a wonderful gift exchange, the Buzzard boys took the girls (Ella, Kaylee and Mackenzie) out to sled and ride on the snow mobiles.  They spent a good hour outside playing and enjoying the snow.  The Buzzard's have the perfect hill for sledding and I know it was the highlight of Mackenzie's Christmas. 

Time Warp Tuesday-Christmas Pasts

2006

2007

2008

                                                                          2009

2010

Merry (almost) Christmas! 

The Reason for the Season

Christmas has become so commercialized that we forget about the real reason for the season.  We get so consumed in purchasing the perfect presents for our loved ones,decorating our houses in twinkling lights, figuring out our holiday travel plans, that the real meaning of Christmas gets overshadowed. Mackenzie's preschool class put on a precious Christmas program, retelling the story of Jesus's birth & singing some holiday songs.  Mackenzie played an angel and was excited all week about her performance.  My favorite part of this video, is when she notices that I am videotaping, and waves an annoyed hand at me. Such an angel. . .  (don't forget to pause my playlist on the right, so you can hear the audio)

I also am posting a video titled "One last Christmas" which documents a families last Christmas with their terminally ill son.  If you do not have a kleenex close, you will need to grab one...or a dozen.  I sob every time I watch this.  A precious reminder to appreciate the ones we have in our lives, and never take them for granted.  If your family does not support a charity, this is a great one to be involved with.  Tis the season to give....

Trip to Mexico

We just returned yesterday from Jeremy's best friend "Dinger's" destination wedding, in Puerto Vallarta.  It was a wonderful break from the below freezing temps here at home, and a nice break from the craziness of the hustle and bustle of the holidays.  Having no schedules to keep, early morning wake up calls, or people to care for, was heavenly!  I finally realized what it feels like to be my kids.....you know, waited on, cared for, and spoiled rotten.  It was an all-inclusive resort and the staff was wonderful.  Anytime you asked for a drink, snack or set of pool towels, the response was always the same "it's a pleasure."  I told Jeremy not to expect the same treatment when we returned home; I know he is missing it too! 

We were so honored to share in their special day. The wedding ceremony was on the beach, at sunset.  50 people were in attendance, and the weather and setting could not have been more spectacular.  Eric and Kate, you are an amazing couple.  So full of life and laughter.  We can't wait to share in your journey together as husband and wife. We wish you much love and happiness together!  Love you both!

 Home sweet Home!

The Beach

Headed to the Huts for some souveniers 

The pool....where we lived most of the trip. . .

 Soaking in the sun with the bride-to-be, Kate

 Dinger and "Mama Ding"

 Pool Volleyball....at one point, someone's girlfriend took a ball to the face...this was a serious game!

 Old Friends

 Headed to the Rehersal Dinner, with the soon-to-be bride and groom

 Who is this hot couple, out waaay past their bedtime?  Oh ya, I hardly recognize them when they are not in "mom and dad mode!"

The Wedding Ceremony

 The Happy Couple! 

 My handsome hubby!

 This picture cracks me up.  It looks like Jeremy and Kate were married, and that Dinger is eating my face! 

 Me and my handsome hubby! 

 Post Speech Hug

 Goodbye breakfast on the balcony,

 Goodbye Romantic Massages for Two,

Goodbye, Dates with My Husband,

 Goodbye Mexico. . . .

 Hello Frozen Tundra we call home....now if that isn't reality just slapping you in the face, I don't know what is!

Thank you to our families and friends who took care of our kids (especially our dear friend Laura who had to deal with a 4 year old who began throwing up hours after we made our first connection....securing herself the title of Friend of the year).  We can't thank you enough!  This magical get-a-way would not have been possible without you!