The whirlwind that was December.

Hunting out the perfect tree.  Start the Christmas festivities ... and the whirlwind that was December.

Tree decorating time!

Cookie baking time -- Sprinkle Cookies!   (A family tradition)

Polar Express!!! Eli’s love of trains, and knew found love for Santa this year made this experience extra special.  Eli soaked up every moment of it. So much so that he was quite disappointed when it was over.

 

Welcome Chloe! Our Niece.  Born  -- so sweet, and so very loved.  God has great plans in store for this beautiful girl.  I am honored to be her Aunt, and be part of what’s sure to be an amazing journey.

Eli’s first Preschool production was this weekend.  Squeezed between my brothers wedding, there was plenty of family that came and joined in the excitement!

Not knowing how Eli would do, he shocked all of us when he chose not only to sing – but to sing so loudly that a few times he was singing solo. Away in a Manger and Jingle Bells, as loud and as clear as he could.

It was a precious as can be.

He beamed with pride, and so did we.

Such a ham.

I just love him so.

My brother got married.  Family, family, and more family poured into Sacramento to celebrate this joyous occasion.  Marie is a wonderful gal, and we are so happy her and Mikey found each other!    May 17, 2011 was the big day and what a beautiful day it was!!

Family photos! For the first time, since my married life -- all of the Higley's together took family pictures.  It was so much fun! A HUGE thanks to my dear friend Joelle Smith (www.capturedbyjoelle.com) for her talent and patience with our crew!

Christmas!  Ashley, Scott, and Tennley joined us for Christmas this Year. It was so special.  For the first time, Eli really understood the concept and was so excited to celebrate Jesus’ birthday.  I am so thankful for the many laughs we had this Christmas with all of our family!  We are truly so very blessed.

That wraps up Decemeber. It was busy and it went by too fast.  We took down decorations a few weeks ago during Eli’s nap. When he came out he started crying and saying that he “wanted more Christmas.”  ....Me too buddy, me too.  My sentiments exactly.  After such an action-packed, family full, fantastic December, it’s hard to pack it all up and wait for it to come again in a year.    I am thankful for every moment this past December brought. So many moments to treasure.