Christmas has always been such a magical season. When Jesus, the true reason for Christmas, is at the heart of our celebrations, the novelty of the holiday never seems to wear off.

Now, as a parent, Christmas is even more special than ever before. Ryan and I get to create new memories and traditions for our own family, while still celebrating and reminiscing about traditions of old.

Our Christmas break was everything that I had hoped for am more. We had quality time making the best memories. Though we all took our turns being sick with colds and stomach viruses, that just meant extra cuddles and sleeping in. You’ll noticed poor Q’s cheeks covered in red polka dots from her virus.

It was the perfect balance of busy and relaxing, loud and peaceful. I’m so thankful for quality time with loads of family and friends!

Cookie Decorating

If you know my Mama, you know that she is famous for her baking prowess. My sister and I are equally as famous for being world-renowned taste-testers of said baking. Every year since I can remember, we have made dozens upon dozens of Christmas cookies for friends and family. This year “Aunt Cole” even brought masks to make sure the cookies didn’t catch our germs!

Though Quinn joined the festivities for the first time last year, this was the first year that she was really aware and actively participating. Quinn had a blast learning the tricks of the trade from her Gigi! It’s safe to say that she willingly and happily joined the ranks as a taste-tester!

Grandma was able to join us this year too, making 4 generations of cookie bakers on hand!

   

  

We spent Sunday evening of the same weekend with all of the girl cousin’s on Ryan’s side. We love not only having them in town but having girls that are all so close together in age!     

Christmas Eve Eve

On Christmas Eve Eve, we traveled to Northern Ohio and got to spend time with both sides of Ryan’s family. We had a blast spending quality time with family that spans 4 generations. The blessing of time with family from across the country are not lost on us!

 

Christmas Eve

Quinn’s big Christmas present this year was her play kitchen! I’m not sure who was more excited, Quinn or Ryan and I. We tried not to get carried away with gifts, which we found was easier said than done. Read more about how we simplified gift giving this year as well as the toddler gifts that Quinn received.

Reading The Night Before Christmas has become a sweet tradition for our little family. We began doing it the year we were pregnant with Quinn and read to her in my belly. We have continued the tradition of cuddling up in bed and reading the classic together. This year Quinn even had her own fabric version to play with while we read.

Happy Birthday Jesus!

One of my favorite traditions is participating in Meals on Wheels with my family on Christmas morning. I love the reminder that Christmas isn’t about the presents. I’m so thankful that we get to pass along some of these amazing traditions with Quinn!

Melissa & Doug Slice and Bake Wooden Cookie Play Food Set

Four generations!

Dyson Toy Vacuum

Rocking Horse

Paddington Bear

Despite our best efforts to simplify and minimize gifts for Quinn, she was still spoiled with thoughtful and fun gifts from family.

We made a birthday cake for Jesus, which will be a tradition that we are sure to continue for years to come. This was such a sweet way to remind us all of what Christmas is all about.

Snow Days and Sledding

We are loving the snow and cold days that we have had the last few weeks. We’ve been able to ease back into work and daycare thanks to a few days off of school!

 

Quinn’s Happy hat