It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

The kids wrote their letters to Santa. Easton's was so cute, "Santa, I was good. I didn't even punch my sister". If only that were true, Easton. If only that were true. He has been a very good boy, that much is right, but he could ease up the punching. He asked me to make his name in big letters so he could color it in. 

The kids stringing popcorn and Pom Pom ball garlands. Truth be told, they both got bored of their garland making and decided to read Christmas books and admire the ornaments instead while Daddy strung the lights. I, on the other hand, made a fun garland. 

We discovered a charming little tree farm in Martinez. They had a ton of trees to choose from that were all beautiful, and they have the option of cutting your own tree as well. Everyone was so friendly there. We will be returning next year. 

After walking around a little Easton told us, "and guess what, guys? ...  I am really cold". So while he and daddy went off to get his jacket (you know, the one I suggested he wear in the first place), Gabriela found us the perfect tree. 

Easton insisted on pushing it back to the van. The guy from the farm and Daddy and Mama kept offering to help our four year old, but he was having none of it. Easton was so proud of himself for being strong and independent. 

That eight foot tree was heavy!

Easton is spelling out Simone on one of her special ornaments. 

Decorating the tree is always so fun. Lane and I have always loved getting Christmas ornaments when we go on trips and, over the years, have had a number of ornament exchanges with family members. We have so many beautiful, handmade ornaments  I love telling our kids the story of each ornament as we put them on the tree. We have photo ornaments of our babies and even Willow already has some that are just for her. This year Lane and I both cried as we decorated the tree and hung Simone's ornaments. Even the happy sweet moments are tinged with sadness, and they always will be because our family will always feel incomplete without our Simone. 

The kids made their own paper chain to count down the days before Christmas. We have been listening to Christmas music around the clock, preparing for our homeschool Christmas craft fair, and even made some cookies this week. I am trying to enjoy the moments and make room for the fun instead of worrying about the mess.  Still have to make Willow her stocking and Easton can't wait to make sugar cookies.