Christmas: Part 2

The Sunday before Christmas we boarded a plane headed for Nashville.  We were initially planning to drive, but having another child that cries in the car seat made the decision to purchase plane tickets much easier.  And I AM SO GLAD WE DID!!!!

Monday morning, the Collier's  (some of our dear friends from Kentucky) were leaving the Nashville area heading for Louisville, but took a slight detour to visit with us.  While the visit was short, it was great to see them.  They met Zoe for the first time and we got to congratulate them (in person) on the baby girl they are expecting in the spring.

That evening, my parents came to my sister's for Christmas Eve dinner.  My mom bought Zoe this cute outfit and I couldn't resist snapping a picture of the cute tights.

She is just so sweet.

The boys love playing with my dad.  They wear him out.

This is also a rare event.  Snapshots of my sister and I with our hubbies.

I never dreamed I would live so far from my sister.  Overall, I have adjusted, but there are times I wish so badly that we could just spend a weekend together or pay one another a quick visit.  It was definitely nice to spend some time with her.

This photo sums up the week with these two.  Braxton wants to be chased or wants to be chasing someone all the time.  Braxton also likes to grab Bennett by the shirt or tantalize him with a toy to get him to chase him.  It's funny how they would fight yet wanted to be around one another.

We ended our Christmas Eve with a visit from Chef Santa Dadder!!

Brax was up early Christmas morning and ready to open gifts, but we decided to let Bennett sleep until he awoke on his own.  He did not sleep well on Christmas Eve, so we certainly didn't need to wake him and have a grouchy pants on our hands.

However, Zoe was awake and enjoying all of the attention she was receiving.

It was only a short time before Bennett woke up and joined in on the fun.

And Zoe continued to enjoy her time...

so did Colton.

Let the photo overload continue.  Now, our attempt to capture the kiddos.  If nothing else, we'll look back and laugh.

Bennett still has jelly all over his face.

At least when they're making silly faces you know they're having a fun time.

These two are only a day a part and about 7 pounds :)

We had a wonderful Christmas celebration and were blessed with more than we deserve.  I am thankful that my family got to meet and spend time with Zoe.  I am thankful that we were able to help my sister and brother-in-law while the traveled to Kentucky for the funeral of the brother-in-law's mother.  I am thankful that I won't need to buy clothes for Zoe until she is 2 (maybe older).  I am thankful for a safe trip to and from Nashville and to have spent 8 days with my family.  Most of all, I am thankful that during this season we focus on the birth of Christ and how His humanity teaches us much about love, sacrifice, and humility.

Now, to leave you with two super cute sock monkey's.