Christmas with Friends

On our way north for Christmas, we were able to have a nice long visit with our friends, the Frank family. We had planned to have a Christmas crafting and baking day like last year, but since Maddie is now in school we had to hold off until the week before Christmas. We ended up having a shorter day than originally planned, so we made the most of it and spent no time getting the kids going on Christmas crafts. Jonathan and Maddie had a blast building a foam gingerbread house together and cutting out salt dough ornaments (to be painted at a later date).

Moms had a great time catching up and making dinner together. And for the first time in quite a while, both of our families had the chance to sit down together for a meal. It was great to have the moms, dads, and kiddos all at the same table at the same time! :) It was a special Christmas celebration followed by the best part . . . presents under the tree!

Maddie and James gave Jonathan a fantastic Christmas book called, "The Gingerbread Pirate." He absolutely loves it and is still asking for it at bedtime! Jonathan gave Maddie and James some favorites of his . . . a sticker book for Maddie and wood blocks/beads for James. It was so much fun watching them all open their presents together. The excitement was almost too much! It was a great kickoff to our Christmas festivities.

And of course, I can't help but share a bit of Lisa's Christmas decorations. There is a lot of joy in her house thanks to her two adorable kiddos. And since her middle name is Joy, it's only fitting that the main word around her house is Joy. Their home was so cozy and sparkly for the season . . . a great combination of earthy and blingy. We left with happy tummies, content minds (thanks to the crafts and conversation!), and much joy for an afternoon and evening spent with our dear friends.