Christmas Traditions

It really is the most wondeful (and BUSY) time of the year!  I LOVE decorating the house for Christmas every year.  This year I went a little more low-key since Evie doesn't leave me with as much free time as I used to have, but the house still feels so warm and cozy. Evie has thoroughly enjoyed the Christmas tree, and she waves at it every morning when she wakes up and every afternoon when we get home.  Even though she's crawling, she hasn't ventured down to that side of the den on her own yet, so the tree remains in tact... for one more year.  :) 

Every year for as long as I can remember, we bake Christmas cookies at my mom's.  Evie got to join in on the fun this year.  She enjoyed an extended nap (go figure!) and then crawled around Nana's kitchen.  Bennett was so sweet and made some special cookies for Evie to leave out for Santa.   Despite peer pressure from Mimi and Nana, I didn't let Evie eat any cookies. 

Gavin's company Christmas party was a lot different this year since Evie got to attend with us.  She was overwhelmed by all the people, but she handled it great, ESPECIALLY considering it was during her afternoon nap time.  She didn't last long on the ride home!



Amy and I continued our tradition of hosting a Christmas "dirty santa" party at my house with some of our very good friends.  This was our fourth year.  Always a fun group of ladies and a really great time!  I definitely couldn't pull it all off without my big sis!!  Honestly, planning the party and pulling everything together with her is just as much fun as the party itself.  I think we make a good team.  :)

 And just last night, Gavin and I continued an even longer standing tradition- dinner and an ornament swap with two of our very best friend couples.  I've literally known these girls my whole life, and we've been best friends for too many years to count.  This year, Evie made a brief appearance before bedtime, baby Buck was an angel, and baby L #2 will make her grand debut in March.  The only thing missing was Jenn.  :(

And now the big day is almost here.  It sure has flown by.  Even though Evie will never remember her first Christmas, I know I sure will!