If only...

If only... my life was simple I would be able to find more time to do the things I love: sewing, knitting, putting photos into albums. Instead, life is complicated these days. In the midst of another job change for my husband, my simplicity comes in encouraging him, loving my children, and finding short moments to make special.

Thankfully, I was able to set aside this past Saturday to decorate the house with Christmas decorations - we even have 2 Christmas trees this year, which is a first. Our tradition goes as follows:

1. Hubby goes up to the attic and pulls everything down.
2. The kids go crazy wanting to pull everything out of the bins at one time.
3. Mom says, "No." Then, we try to do it in an organized fashion. (Note the word "try.")
   

It's fun to see the kid's faces as familiar decorations are pulled out of the bins. We go around the house placing things here and there. Then the tree goes up. This year, I had a smaller tree that fit perfectly in our book nook that I rearranged earlier this year. Then, we worked on our hand-me-down 7ft tree that is the most beautiful tree we've ever had (pictured above). Our house looks festive, greenery is around the front door, and the wreath is hung on the door.

Another tradition in our house is that each year the kids get to pick out an ornament to add to their collection. Here is what each of them picked. I love to see how it shows their personality.

This is Sophia's... it came with 2 little dolls with braids. She loves to read and likes things pretty and simple. I love that about her!

Next comes Emily... She is my glitz and glamour girl, loves pretty things, love treats, and loves getting gifts. A pink lollipop is what she chose!

Then, there's my little man Isaac. He couldn't decide what he wanted, so I had to help him a bit. He loves stuffed animals, and thought this giraffe was a good pick. However, he didn't want to put it on the tree. He'd much rather play with it. That's a boy for you! :)

Normally, I make the kids pajamas for Christmas, but this year, I've decided to make aprons for each of them out of fabric I've previously purchased. I'm excited about this project and hope I can complete it in time! My kids love to help me in the kitchen, and several years ago I had purchased 3 aprons from a dollar store. They're now too small on them. I hope to post pictures of the new aprons as I complete them. I was perplexed on what fabric to use for my son as an apron is not really a "boy thing" in my mind. However, he would feel left out if he didn't get one too... so, you'll have to wait and see what I have for him!

I hope you are having a nice Christmas season. May we always remember the true reason for Christmas... Jesus Christ!