Magical Christmas

Christmas with children takes on a whole new meaning, and this year was no exception. I think at 5 Sophie really "got" it. Not only the magic of Santa, but the season of Advent, the waiting for Baby Jesus, and the joy when we did get to Mass on Christmas Eve, and there He was, in the manger in the stable. The wonder and joy on her face was priceless. Not that she was an angel during Mass by any means....but that's what animal crackers and Color Wonder markers are for.

Our neighbors Becky and Tom gave the kids an elf this year. Sophie named our elf Lily, and grew so attached to her that we had to write a letter to Santa to see if she could stay with us longer. He relented, and she can stay until New Year's Day. Terry and I have thoroughly enjoying hiding her every night, and hearing Sophie calling for her first thing in the morning.

Michael and Emily enjoyed Christmas morning as well. Finally, they were allowed into the room with that big sparkly tree! And the bows and paper that they got to play in....toddler heaven. Not that they actually opened any of their own gifts, big sister took care of that.

The rest of our Christmas was nice as well. On Christmas Eve, we went to Marilyn's for BuenaNoche, her traditional Cuban feast. It was wonderful, as usual. We left there in time to make 6pm Mass, and were able to get our normal seats, which was key. We sit on the end, near the wall, imperative for fast exits, and for allowing the babies to walk along the wall when they get cranky.

Christmas afternoon we had family to our house for dinner. It was nice to have both sets of in laws with us. My only regret: I forgot all about the cranberry relish Sophie and I had made 2 days before. I knew there was a good reason I always make up a menu and post it on the fridge. Lesson learned for next year.

Here are some pics of the festivities. I have one more roll of film to get developed, and then I will join the rest of the world as a digital camera owner!! Santa was kind enough to bring us one and I look forward to figuring it all out.

Sophie and Grandpa Maier at Marilyn's, Sophie and the other kids had their own table

I have been trying since last night to add more pictures to this post, but Blogger is not cooperating....will keep trying...Gotta go figure out the digital while the babes are asleep!