12 days of christmas!

Our 25 days of advent waiting finally gave birth to Jesus in the manger, the season of Christmas, and 12 days of presence. (thanks matt and jess for that idea!!) We were lucky to have my dad's family join us Christmas Eve and celebrate the first 5 days with us. Each day we are opening a stocking with a clue as to what we will do together as a family to embody love.

Here's what we've got so far...
day 1... Presents, feast and presence! Abby learned about Santa through many of her library books this year and decided she would put in a request. She asked Santa for a candy cane. One. I love my daughter. Then the Denver Cornells joined us for a mid day meal, naps, and lessons and carrols all together at our church.

day 2... had a relaxing day and then went to Zoo Lights to add a little excitement. Abby was thrilled to ride the merry-go-round for the first time at the Denver Zoo thanks to Isaac sharing a token!

day 3... Skiing!!! Abby and Isaac went for their first time ever to Winter Park and skiied again and again, on a real hill with a real chair lift and everything. Pictures/Video to come!

Day 4... Bouncy house! Abby and Isaac daily jump on mattresses in our basement so it was great to see them doing their favorite activity on a much grander scale.

(in our basement)

(the real deal)

day 5... Gingerbread houses! This is a tradition for me as long as I can remember. It made me so happy to see Abby loving decorating them as much as I did (and still do!) I made a whole village and am more thankful to Chris now that i know how much work they are to put together!