Moments to Remember

     As Christmastime is now upon us, I feel joyful and bubbly. I love the typical Christmasy things: Nativity set, stockings, tree, candy canes, presents, etc. But more than that, it's the memories, and the opportunities to make memories, that I love. 

     Each year when we head to the tree farm to choose and cut down our Christmas tree, we have a silly little tradition for the kids. When we finally decide on which tree to get, we have to make sure there's no chipmunks living in it. We shake the tree, we look for "chipmunk food," and oftentimes, Daddy leads the kids on a chipmunk chase to ensure the little critters "don't find the tree again." This has it's roots in a Mickey Mouse and Pluto cartoon. 

     We also are diligent in putting out our cookies for Santa and carrots for the reindeer (Rudolph gets a cookie though, because he is picked on so much!).
We craft Christmas countdown paper chains and faithfully tear off on paper link a day.

     And last year we began a new tradition of attending our small town's tree lighting "ceremony." The kids get to visit with Santa and have a picture taken. There's cookies to decorate, a coloring contest with awesome potential prizes. And free hotdogs, chili and hot chocolate. All the while there is live music and dancing, and just has a real homey feel. 

     We attended this year's tree lighting tonight, and had a wonderful time. This was my moment to remember. My children looking so sweet and festive. Cold air, but warm spirit. Family. Friends. Involvement. Tradition.

The boys visiting with Santa.

My little princess was perfectly comfortable with the jolly man.

Mmmmm, chili! He declared it a new favorite and asked if I had the ingredients to make some when we got home.

Yummy hot chocolate.

This little one had been waiting for her candy cane all night. And she loved it!