The excitement of Christmas is in the air, water, and food at our home :)

We are excitedly preparing and celebrating the Christmas season at our home.  My children have lingered over their Christmas lists.  Luke has actually redone his list atleast 3 times.  Jorden and I were giggling at it over lunch today because Luke writes down serial numbers and ALL pertinent information.  He is making sure that Santa gets everything correct.  Personally, I welcome the information.  I don't want Santa to end up getting the wrong thing.  How tragic for jolly ol' Saint Nick!

Here are a few pictures of Christmas at our home...

 We love decorating our home and look forward to the evening time when we can plug in the lights.  Unfortunately, something has happened to the outlet on our front porch and the lights will not come on.  Barry has tried the breaker box and the GFC thingy.  I have to call an electrician for help.  It's not like we have Griswold lights, so I'm not sure what happened.

 I informed my sweet family that these hand towels are STRICTLY for decoration.  Dirty and/or wet hands can't touch them.  They just laugh at me.  I think they are used to my oddities! :)

This is one of my favorite pictures of the kids so far this season.  They were being silly for the camera and Luke couldn't help but crack up at his brother and sister.  As a matter of fact, I love it so much that it is one of the pictures that will be on our Christmas card.

With all of the wonderful family time, gifts to buy, and parties to attend, Christmastime can also be stressful.  Unpleasant memories can come to the forefront of our minds and leave us feeling less than jolly.  We can be stressed because money is tight, we have to be around people that we are not fond of, etc. 

This morning my husband informed me that I have been a bit snappy with our children.  Honestly, I didn't even realize it.  It stung when he told me and I desperately wanted to make excuses for myself and tell him his faults.  However, the Holy Spirit duck taped my mouth and caused me to reflect on my husband's loving words.  He's right.  I have been a bit of a crab lately.  I want all of the shopping done and everything else that requires my attention done before they get out of school for the Christmas break. 

This scripture came to mind and I realized that regardless of what needs to be done, I am to be loving and kind to those around me.  Let's be honest, everything that needs to get done, will get done.  I can choose to enjoy this time with my children, or I can make everyone on edge.  I want my children to look back on this Christmas and have only fond memories.  I certainly don't want my family walking on egg shells.

I am truly grateful that my husband trusts me enought to be honest with me.  I vow to be cheerful and loving to my family from here on out this season.  I hope that you and your family are enjoying the season and creating wonderful memories that you all will treasure forever.