It was truly magical to see the joy and excitement of the Christmas season come alive for Rya. She met Santa as she does every year, but I daresay this year he was the real deal. Most of the time when Rya takes pictures with Santa we explain to her how they aren’t the real Santa but rather just his helpers because there are too many kids for Santa to visit. But, this guy had it all from the twinkle in his eye to the rosy red cheeks. And, I am pretty sure I saw a “bowl full of jelly” belly shake as he laughed. It’s good to know he lives up to his reputation. He certainly didn’t let Rya down.
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We spent this Christmas in Texas with my family (just in case you couldn’t tell, this is Melissa) . The most special part of Christmas, for me, is to be around those I love. I’m sure that the kids would agree with me, but I’m sure the gifts didn’t hurt either. Rya got everything from video games and dress up dolls to make-up (oh, my little girl is growing up so fast). And Tieg got a few choice gifts, including a riveting book (I assume it was riveting because he really sunk his teeth into it, or rather gums since he is still toothless), and a Little People farmhouse. Mostly he loved playing with, chewing on, and tearing into the paper.
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I have found a new joy in Christmas in watching my children learn the true meaning for the season. My heart swells as they tell what they know of the story of the baby Jesus and sing songs of his praise. On Christmas day, I am bubbling with excitement and anticipation of my kid’s faces when they see all the decorations, lights and gifts. And, I feel humbled to watch their enthusiasm as they give gifts to others. I have decided I love Christmas even more from this perspective than I did as a child.
But, after it is all said and done, when all the shopping and wrapping and decorating and cleaning and cooking and singing and laughing is done, I find that we are just done tuckered out…(and no, look closely, that is not Rya laying on Cody’s stomach…hehehe).
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Here’s to the best Christmas yet, and to them just getting better each year… Merry Christmas!
