Harper's second Christmas and our first in our new little house on our property was just as cozy as it looks. Harper was old enough to understand the concept of decorating the tree and she did a fine job. She has a thing for elephants and was fixated on hanging and unhanging the elephant ornament I got for her over and over again. Repetition and kids... cracks me up.

I feel so content in this season of life. Living close to my family now makes for extra warm and fuzzy holiday feelings. My Christmases growing up consisted of late night Christmas tree gazing, hot cocoa, and the soothing nostalgic voice of Nat King Cole. I have looked forward to that exact scene every Christmas I can remember.

Now that scene I so longed for each Christmas took place in my own little home this year, except the cocoa has been replaced with wine. :)

Merry Christmas. Our Father is here with us.

Brian, Harper, my 2 brothers and I saw it fitting to cut down our own tree this year and hopefully it is the start of an age old tradition we hope to keep alive within our little family. There is something magical about searching through a foggy pine forrest for the perfect tree to call your own.

I can say it was not the easiest decision with 4 adults and their conflicting opinions on just what constitutes the perfect live Christmas tree, but ultimately, as the matriarch of the group I had the final say (but of course) :D

This was Harper's 1st time trekking through the pines and she seemed right at home tromping around, smelling and taste testing (yes) everything in sight. My daughter is fearless. I love that about her.

Welcome little tree. Welcome Christmas.

not ready to leave yet!

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