Pre Christmas Christmas (Dec 2019)

Before we headed out to Utah, we decided to have our own family Christmas at home.  (Less stuff to transport in suitcases, and some stuff was actually needed for the trip!)   The funny thing about these pictures is that we had decided to open presents on the Sunday before we left, after church.  But even though we'd just gotten home from church, the kids swore they couldn't open presents unless they were in their PJs.  So there they are.   Here are some of the highlights . . .

Books for Kate, always a good option.

Aly got a T-shirt quilt with shirts from her middle school and high school cross country, track, girls camp, triathlon, HEFY/EFY, Pounders, and even Tropical Smoothie.  Here's to the memories!!

Chris also outfitted Aly with some outdoor supplies like a Gerber tool, pocket knife, headlamp, etc.  That guy's always trying to keep his family safe.  Love him for it.  

Aly and Lise also got new, heavy-duty coats.  Remember what I said about the practical gift thing?  Lise needed to give all the snow gear a once over before taking it to Utah.  It became very apparent that our children grew up in the south when Lise didn't know whether to put her snow pants over or tucked into her boots . . . 

Lise made bank this year with a new laptop (which she paid 1/2 for).  But nothing, nothing could compare to . . . 

. . . the Bob Ross Calendar!! 😂

Kylie was all about the Elves & Dragon Legos this year.  I wonder how many more years I'm going to have before that kid is out of toys. 😥

Chris and I both got some shoes (we're both used to the adult practical presents by now) and then we also got a hammock and a new DVD player for the family.

Oh, and I can't forget this homemade necklace and card from Kylie.  Super sweet that she made it all by herself.