A Christmas Message

This year, especially the past few months, has really been a roller coaster. We've had some unexpected turns in the road that have taken us down a different path. While it has not been easy, and we as a family have had to re-adjust, it has made the meaning of family so much stronger for us.

Ethan is four years old this Christmas and his innocence is so refreshing. We have decorated for Christmas, made cookies and Oreo truffles, sang Christmas songs, and have really gotten into the spirit of Christmas. I have started talking to him about the birth of baby Jesus and what Christmas means but I think maybe next year it will mean more.

Tonight after we went to look at Christmas lights, Jerry and Ethan baked cookies for Santa. Then we made reindeer food and he sprinkled it all in the yard for Santa's reindeer. I cherish these moments because I know at anytime, some random child at school will ruin the belief of Santa by telling him that Santa doesn't exist.

We also went to the store today to get stocking stuffers for the two stockings that Ethan was making for his cousins tomorrow. He then helped me wrap some gifts. I'm not sure if I have told you this, but Ethan is a big helper. He loves to help. He helps us clean, cook, and bake. If you are doing something, he pitches in to help. So, it was no surprise when he wanted to help wrap the presents. We encourage this so that he feels valued.

I'll take many pictures tomorrow and will try to have them posted ASAP. Grandma Wendy and Papa Ronald sent him a big box of presents and it's been an act of congress keeping him out from under the tree. He has spent tons of time lingering by the tree in hopes that I would let him open just one. We do have a tradition that on Christmas Eve he opens one present (pajamas to wear to bed), so he got to open that and a Santa "baby" that he's been asking for. I thought it was appropriate to have his Santa sleep with him tonight.

To all the family and friends that we can not be with this season: Have a blessed and Merry Christmas. May you also take a moment to remember why we celebrate Christmas. Enjoy the children and embrace the little moments.

Love,

Mikki, Jerry, and Ethan

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