Merry Christmas!

As a child, it seemed that it took FOREVER for Christmas to get here, and now, as an adult, Christmas comes and goes all too quickly! I can't believe that only a week ago, my children were still anxiously awaiting Santa's arrival and waking each morning excited to search for "Nicky", our family's very own elf, to see where he had chosen as his new hiding spot. They had that special sparkle in their eyes, that Christmas glow, that comes with the anticipation of what they will find on Christmas morning.
Even though I knew there was going to be nothing under the tree for me, I too have been filled with that special Christmas glow. This year was our first Christmas in our new house. I know I've said this before, but this house has truly been such an amazing blessing for our family. Every day I am so thankful for this gift, and as I watch my children I can see the joy this house has brought to all of us, from providing a bedroom for the babies, to having enough space for the kids to play, to giving Mike his own quiet place to study, and providing a kitchen big enough for me to entertain in, and prepare a holiday meal. This house has meant so much to us, and being able to enjoy our first Christmas here surrounded by family made this holiday that much more special to all of us.
My parents came last Monday to enjoy Christmas with our family. The kids were so excited, and for days kept asking when Grandma Ral and Papa Don were going to get here - and since they've left, I don't think a day has gone by without someone saying how much they miss them. My parents live in Texas, so unfortunately we only get to see them about twice a year, and having them with us for Christmas this year has been a highlight for the kids, since we haven't seen them since July.
One of the first things we did when they got here was to have a girls night out! Sami loves to hang out with just us girls, since she's the only one (as she keeps reminding me), so Sami, Grandma Ral, and I went to dinner and a movie - Tangled! It was such a fun night, and the movie was so cute. I think Grandma likes to spoil Sami a little to make up for all the boys she has to live with!
Next it was off for a visit with Santa! I know, waiting until the night before Christmas Eve is cutting it a little close, but we still made it in time. Besides, with our own personal elf, he was able to carry a few messages to Santa for us. We had big, grand plans of taking the kids to see Santa's village and petting the reindeer, but in the end we had to settle for visiting Santa at the mall, which turned out cute in the end. I'm just curious as to when going to see Santa became so complicated?
On Christmas Eve Mike's parents came down to spend Christmas with us, so we were able to have all the grandparents here for the holidays. It was so wonderful to have everyone here! Of course the kids were in heaven, and both Mike and I felt so blessed to be surrounded by so many of the people we love. The day was filled with cooking, spending time together, and of course tracking Santa's flight! That night we enjoyed a yummy meal together and each took turns sharing something we were grateful for, one of my favorite holiday traditions! After dinner we had a little traditional Bills Family Christmas Eve program (abbreviated of course due to small attention spans) where we all took turns sharing songs, stories, and talents. I love this part of Christmas Eve. It is when we slow down and take time together as a family to remember the true meaning of Christmas and celebrate our Savior.
Christmas morning was exactly what it should be - a full house with excited children who just can't wait to see what Santa brought them! Santa was very good to the kids this year, thanks to some help from generous grandparents and the kids were very happy and excited by their gifts. Of course my favorite part was watching their sweet faces and seeing them about to explode with excitement! I love the wonder, the joy, and especially the magic of Christmastime! It only lasts for such a short while, so I want to make the most of it for my children. I love their whole hearted belief in something so magical and special! I wish that feeling could last forever, but even now, I see the sprigs of doubt being planted in them from the outside world. I will help them hold on to that belief for as long as I can, but once the magic is gone and doubt takes over, I truly hope they will still be able to find that that special Christmas Spirit alive in their hearts.
Merry Christmas! I hope the magic and wonder was enjoyed in your home as it was in ours. We have enjoyed such a wonderful holiday and I am so sad to see it go. It was so fun for us have all the grandparents here together, and of course, there were tearful goodbyes when they left. They made this Christmas so special for our family, and we will have many wonderful memories to look back on and enjoy. We love you!