December 25

The boys opened their stuffed stockings this morning with much delight at the lifelike animal figurines inside. I'm thinking we may need to buy two of everything from now on. The impressive elephant was a favorite.

December 24

I came downstairs this Christmas Eve morning to find Hamilton and Mimi making cinnamon rolls in the kitchen. Hamilton loves to "make cook," but his newly received Slinky was not far out of reach.

December 23

Hamilton bear-hugs Grandma Ava because she brought him a little present before Sunday lunch.

December 22

We took the boys to the live nativity or "manger scene" as Hamilton calls it. At first he was worried a train would come by and be too loud, but after he kept his fingers out of his ears, the braying donkey captured his attention. Every year that we've been to see this live nativity, it's so cold. We bundled up and huddled under blankets. Thankfully we ran into the Trammells afterwards, so we didn't even have to invite ourselves over for coffee and dessert. "Mimi Claire" (as Hamilton says) invited us to warm ourselves in her toasty house next to the church and enjoy the delicious desserts she'd made. What a treat for our cold night!

December 21

Mom picked the same kind of tree we did this year. I like looking at hers better though. Perhaps I'm just tired of our ornaments and decor. Of course the boys loved seeing all the presents underneath spilling into the next room.