Buddy is our Elf. Two genius moms created this cute little elf (and story) that comes down from the North Pole on Thanksgiving night and returns every night until Christmas Eve to report back to Santa if little girls and boys were naughty or nice. I'm sure Santa got lots of conflicting reports this year on my two little ones. Buddy was the last word out of their mouths at night when saying their prayers and the first word spoken in the morning. They would wake up and ask where Buddy was then fly out of their room to search the house. He was a good elf this year and kept us all entertained. We can't wait for him to return next year.
All in all, Christmas was a joy. I love the traditions we have started with our family and the new ones we continue to create each year. Grandma W came again this year and it just makes celebrating Christmas extra special....especially for Cannon and Caroline. The kids are growing up and the happiness we get to see on their faces from all gifts warms my heart. I know this time of year is not about gifts but I know as children they deserve to have fun. Raising my children to understand what this season is all about will be what my mission is as a parent so that I can pass on to them what was passed down to me. Merry Christmas from our family to ours.
Enjoy our Christmas timeline of events.
BUDDY, our Elf
We love you, Buddy!
ANNUAL BLUFFTON CHRISTMAS PARADE
Caroline spent LOTS of the Christmas season in timeout, even when dining out.
I know she looks cute in her bow and cardigan sweater......but looks can be deceiving.
This year I came more prepared with toys and "stuff" for the kids.
I'm getting good at this after seven years!
Cannon found Samantha (girl from school) and shed
his jacket in the 40 degree weather to show her his tattoo.
Such a boy!
Did you know? Our Bluffton Bobcats were undefeated this football season.
It was a sad day for our little town when we lost the Division 3 state championship.
And there it was, Gus Dean Racing....right down the streets of Old Town Bluffton.
We love you Charlie, Anne & Gus!
Our favorite cow!
Poor Cannon.
The loudness just gets to him so he stood back behind the crowds in his "safe" zone.
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
Thank you, Jenn for help making such a great event!
My thought was to capture a picture to use as our Christmas cards.
Bad thought!
Take 1 - Caroline's sticking out her tongue.
Take 2 - Photographer too slow and Caroline turns around.
Take 3 - Caroline's eyes closed.
Take 4 - Cannon's eyes closed.
Take 5 - All smiles except poor Santa who was so tired of me and my camera.
And here it is!
The saying says it all.....even if it is stretching the truth!
Of course before leaving, he MUST show off his proud tattoo.
NEIGHBORHOOD CHRISTMAS LIGHT TOUR
Every night driving home from school we would have to
drive by the SAME houses to look at Christmas lights. I decided we would change up our "wheels" and head out in the Radio Flyer for a Saturday night stroll through the hood.
A joyful tour of lights ends in a sibling rivalry.
STORY TIME WITH SANTA & MRS. CLAUS
CHRISTMAS EVE CHURCH SERVICE
There is never a dull moment in trying to capture the moment with our kids.
So unlady-like but so Caroline!
Grandma W. arrived just in time to head to church service.
Molly arrived too!
ONE FINGER ONLY when touching ornaments on the tree! Mommy's rule but Cannon's my enforcement officer!
CHRISTMAS JOY!
Sometimes gifts have to be shared with little sisters.
She worked all day to figure out that strap on the back!
We waited until the very end to bring out Cannon's "big" gift.
They smile on his face was from ear to ear!
Daddy aka "coach".
He shot baskets for hours!
Skyping with their cousins in Florida.
Nap time was shared with a few of his new closest friends.
Auntie M passed down a train set that has been in my family for over 50 years.
DAY AFTER CHRISTMAS IN FLORIDA
Cousins!
.JPG)
