Sights of our season

This holiday season has been exceptionally fun for our family. It seems since Pumpkin is older she understands more about traditions and the meaning behind the season. She knows and understands that this season is not only about Santa, but also about focusing on the good and about the birthday of Jesus. I like that there is a balance in our home with this. I think I have gone a little overboard on activities this year, but they have all been worth it. Here is a snip it of what has been keeping us busy!

Nanny brought over a really neat gingerbread house to make. It is a creation of great love and skill. Pumpkin put each piece on with love and care. I love that it is our centerpiece next to our advent wreath.

This was Critter's first time with the man in the red suit. This is also the first picture we have of Pumpkin even close to him. Usually she gets about 4 feet away and then freaks out! We went to a little festival in our downtown. They had a parade and were lighting a tree made of tumbleweeds. We did not stay that late though, would have been MAJOR meltdown time for Critter. So, we went and saw the big man and then walked around. Pumpkin got a kick out of seeing the hotel where her daddy and mommy celebrated their wedding.

Only in Arizona (well, maybe somewhere else in the southwest as well) can you see a tree of Tumbleweeds decorated for Christmas. It sparkles in the sunlight and is really unique and beautiful.

Pumpkin was dressed up to go see the Nutcracker with Nanny and Papa. They like to take her somewhere special for a show around the holidays. She is always so excited. She has been dancing around like a dancer since she went. (I needed a new tree skirt this year and found this one! I just love it! It makes me smile every time I look at the tree. Such a perfect message...I Believe!

It has been so much fun around here this month. We have also been counting down the days with a fun advent calendar. Pumpkin gets to open a box each night after dinner. Also, before bed she tears off a piece of her paper chain in her room. She is now counting the number of pieces left and is getting more excited. We also baked cookies and fudge to bring to our neighbors and friends. I can not go a Christmas without making my Nanny's fudge. It just makes the holiday for me. So...we have been busy enjoying the days. Critter loves the tree and decorations. He walks up to them and points until we tell him what he is looking at. This has been a busy but wonderful season. I can not wait to see what Thursday is like! Hope you have been enjoying your own holiday traditions and what this time of year means to you :)