Christmas 2018

The Christmas season started with the girls school parties. Alexa's class had candy cane fishing and lots of crafts. Our little artist loved it. Addy's class decorated gingerbread houses. She enjoyed putting lots of candy on her house. She even ate some along the way.

The weekend before Christmas we drove to Williams, Arizona to take a trip on the Polar Express. We went in 2014, 2015 and 2016. It was fun to return again this year. This year the weather was very cold, but no snow. The girls enjoyed bundling up with hats and big jackets. We explored the town, ate lots of yummy food and took endless pictures. This year we even did the Santa sleigh zip line for the first time. This is the first year both girls were tall enough. Alexa and Justin went first. They enjoyed it with lots of laughs along the way. When it was time for Addy and I to go we were both nervous. I tried to act tough, but Addy could read right through it. She was requesting to go with Justin (who is clearly braver). I knew it was a good opportunity to show how tough we could be together. We ended up having a great time. Addy even wanted to go again.

That night we put on our matching PJs and headed off to the north pole. Addison still didn't want to go near Santa. She settled for sitting on my lap next to Santa for our traditional photo. Maybe next year... Once we got on the train we drank hot chocolate, ate cookies and sang songs. Addy took a nap but woke up in time to see the elves. Once Santa boarded the train, the girls excitement went even higher. It was a magical ride that I hope to always remember.

Once we were back home in San Diego we attended and volunteered at our churches Living Nativity. This is our second Christmas at Horizon and it's probably my favorite part of our church. Both girls enjoy being in costume, heading the kids that attend and talking about Jesus. What more could you ask for? The girls helped in the craft area for a few hours. Later they left me to help in games. By the end of the night, both girls had their own booths. Somehow there tiny statures have the confidence of full grown adults.

On Christmas Eve we attended church. The girls went into the children's service and had a great time. That night we went home and opened on gift. Before we opened them, Addy stopped us and reminded us we should pray first. Both girls were eager to give each other their gifts. After laying out milk, cookies and carrots (shredded of course) they were fast asleep.

Christmas morning was magical. We opened gifts, played, ate, video chatted with Grandparents, ate some more and watched Christmas movies. It was relaxing and fun and perfect in its own way. I used to be sad about not having family around on big holidays. Now I realize I enjoy just spending time with the people I love the most in the world.