Merry Christmas!

I woke before the sun this morning.  Not from joy or anticipation, but mostly because I was so exhausted I fell asleep in W's rocking chair last night and woke up at 5 AM with a stiff back.  As I walked downstairs to pour a cup of coffee, I took a moment to take it all in.  The lights from the tree, the stillness of the house, and the realization that Santa still had a lot of work to do.

I think Christmas was more magical when I did not have to create the magic myself, but it is wonderful just the same.

In a time where the Christmas season is so driven by sales and "I want... I want..." it was nice to try and give back a little.  Will hand picked some of his own toys to donate and also bought presents for toys for tots.  Do not get me wrong, he still spent all season telling anyone that would listen that he wanted trains!  Engines, tracks, tunnels, bridges, you name it, he asked for it and probably provided a visual.  But standing in front of the glistening lights from the tree this morning as I laid out packages donned with bows, I could not help but think of all the true blessing in our life. 

Like this guy!

So this season, I just want to thank you all - family and friends - for being a part of our lives!  From our home to yours, Merry Christmas and a joyous New Year!

A little sneak peek into our Christmas Eve!