Deck the Halls

I love Christmas! It is the only holiday for which I really have any decorations. Each year we get a live wreath (thanks, Mom!), which this year I decorated with my wooden gingerbread men instead of a bow. The other wreath, which hangs on the front door, was made for us by Nate's co-worker, Robin, who is very talented. I love nativities and advent calendars (and would love to start collecting more). This advent calendar is my first, and I wanted it specifically to make sure that the kids remember the reason for the season. They love getting to take their turn opening the door (and yes, Ryan chose to put all the camels on top of the manger this year). Usually I also put up a Christmas village, but this year, in the spirit of de-stressing, I decided to not worry about it. I might put it up after Christmas as a winter village, but I don't have time to deal with it right now.

My most favorite part of Christmas is my tree. I love putting it up (especially now that we have one that is pre-lit) and then taking out all the ornaments and talking about our memories of them as we put them on the tree. Nate and I collect at least one on each trip we take and then at least one that represents a significant event of the year.

Last Christmas, Nate's parents gave us the beautiful tree skirt that they made. They actually made one for each of the brothers, and they are personalized for our own families. Some got country Christmas colors or gingerbread men, but mine (I mean, ours) has Christmas songs all around it. They have quilted it by hand, and I love all the detail. I also love that the colors match the angel that is on top of our tree. We bought it our very first Christmas, and I've never seen one that I like more.