Christmas Eve 2011

Our Christmas Eve tradition (when we are in Texas) is to go to the Christmas Eve Mass, followed by my birthday dinner celebration, and finally opening gifts with Nan and Gran. This year was no exception.

After we finish opening gifts, we head home to prepare for Santa's arrival.** We gather cookies, cheese, and milk for Santa and Santa Mouse. Then the boys spread reindeer food on our front lawn. I always love watching them spread the reindeer food, as they look like mini airplanes about to take off. Once the reindeer are taken care of, we write letters to Santa and read our traditional Christmas Eve books...Santa Mouse and Twas the Night Before Christmas.

**This year we were on our own with the gingerbread house...a tradition usually saved for Uncle Ben. With Ben in Singapore, we had to read the directions. Guess what? It actually worked! We didn't even need a glue gun or a disassembled coat hanger. Woo hoo!

Bures Family Christmas

We thoroughly enjoyed the Bures family Christmas. It was great to see everyone and so much fun to watch the youngest generation in action. All of the children played so well together. No injuries to report. No one was sent to time out. Smiles and laughter seemed to fill the day. If only my own children got along this well on their own...

It's Official...

Our boys would move to Winnie in about two seconds if they were given the option. They absolutely love visiting my family and especially love all of the adventures offered by wide open spaces and the great outdoors.

We had a wonderful time catching up with everyone and truly left wishing for more time. I hope we never overstay our welcome and always want to go back.

Here are "the moments" we were able to capture. Thank you, Bryan, for bringing a tripod! I think this is the first family photo in at least 20 years.

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas...

Our Christmas preparations became a reality when Mighty had his school Christmas program and Santa made a visit to our house. Our little reindeer spent most of his time waving at mommy during the Christmas songs and then proceeded to skip the Santa visit at our house because he had already seen Santa at his school the day before. Hopefully Santa doesn't hold a grudge!

Thanksgiving in Louisiana

We are thankful for... family, friends, good health, and the many other blessings bestowed upon us each and every day.