Merry Christmas!

We had a quiet Christmas at home. Elizabeth was able to come for a few days and it was nice to sit and relax, talk over coffee or hot chocolate, and watch a few Christmas movies.

 Michael was excited to find "Christmas wishes" under the tree Christmas morning.

Snack before Mass.



After Mass, we sang "Happy Birthday" to Baby Jesus, and Michael placed our two Babes in their mangers. Michael kept asking about Baby Jesus' birthday cake (I think more for his consumption than Jesus'), so we'll have to do that one year. Trying to keep the sugar intake low this holiday! I find Christmas to be the best time than any other liturgical feast to emphasize the humanity of Jesus Christ, as we dwell on Him as a baby, a child, a Son with a Mother. So, I'm glad to see Michael projects a child's love for sweets on his understanding of Jesus!

The Christ-child lay on Mary's lap, His hair was like a light.

O Weary, Weary were the world, but here is all aright.

The Christ-child lay on Mary's breast, His hair was like a star.

O stern and cunning are the Kings, but here the true hearts are.

The Christ-child lay on Mary's heart, His hair was like a fire.

O Weary, Weary is the World, but here the world's desire.

The Christ-child stood on Mary's knee, His hair was like a crown,

And all the flowers looked up at Him, and all the stars looked down.

A Christmas Carol ~ G. K. Chesterton

A few gifts! Michael loves setting up and playing with his "gas station" from Nana.

Gifts from Auntie Elizabeth!

 Serving up breakfast of egg bake, fruit, and Swedish cardamom bread...

 ...while Auntie Elizabeth took "selfies" with the boys. I think Michael's personality is aptly expressed in these.

Elizabeth set the ambiance with her laptop fireplace.



Elizabeth gave us such sweet and perfect gifts too including some things from Rome!



Andrew and I did not exchange gifts as we are saving to travel in the new year. Well, I did snag $50 round trip tickets to Barcelona a while back for the first few days in February, so we consider that our Christmas present to each other. ;)

Michael opened his most prized gift from Nana the following morning - a tool set with a handmade tool apron! Nana knows little boys so well and we all treasure her gifts.

He told me he was going to work. Don't think he can fit anything else in there.

 The few days following Christmas we got some snow and colder temperatures. Michael was so excited. Mama and Papa were too - nothing says Christmas or winter like a good snowfall!

I think we need to get the child a sled.

 

We wish you a joyous and peaceful Christmas season!