Christmas 2013

The days leading up to Christmas are often filled with lots of shopping, wrapping, performances, and gatherings, but no matter how frazzled I feel at times, I always try to enjoy every minute of it.  Christmas is a time for love, and we are blessed to get to spend it with those we love most!

On Sunday, we got together with the Stallards to kick-off Christmas!  It is always nice to be able to gather together and enjoy Aunt Martha’s lasagna, good stories, and lots of laughs.  And, of course, the celebration wouldn’t be complete without the giving and receiving of gifts! So fun!

Before everyone left to go home, we wanted to get a shot of all of the 2nd cousins.  The first was a “normal” shot and then we had to take a  silly shot.  You will easily be able to tell which two have the most experience with “Silly Shots!”

All throughout the Christmas season we give and receive lots of gifts.  However, I want my girls to remember that one of the the most important gifts is the gift of family and the love we have for each other!

Our Piano Princess

Last week Mackaylan performed in her 2nd winter piano recital.  And let me just say, she played as beautiful as she looked!  (However, I guess I am partial!!!)   She had her eye on just the right outfit for weeks and she pulled it off beautifully.  She is growing into such a lovely young lady.

It’s hard to believe that she has only been taking for 1 1/2 yrs.  She really loves it and practices often, especially since Grams and Pop O have a piano right in the family room!  She performed Carol of the Bells with such ease and really made everyone proud! 

Piano Performers Winter Recital 2013

And of course, here are a few shots of Mackaylan with some of her biggest fans (not pictured:  Granny and Granddaddy- They had to scoot out right after KK performed to take Lydia to their house.  Let’s just say that a piano recital with 49 participants is NOT the place for a busy little 2 yr. old! ha): 

Lydia and Jenna

Grams, Pop O, and KK

Mackaylan and Mom (that’s me!)

Mackaylan with our sweet neighbor, Della

Oh, Happy Day!!

Do you ever have one of those days when you think things just couldn't get any better? Well, yesterday was one of those days....

First, Layla appeared for the first time this holiday season! She came with a note that she had been "sent" by our old elf, Urtle, because he was very "busy" in the North Pole helping Santa with gifts! ;) Mackaykan was so thrilled! She had been anxiously awaiting his arrival and was fretting that maybe he hadn't realized we were living with Grams and Pop O temporarily and was out in search of the beloved O'Shields family! Oh, the magic of Christmas!! 

After all of the Layla excitement, we then stepped outside to a 63 degree December morning! This mama was sporting her sandals and a ((BIG SMILE)). Now don't get me wrong, I love cold weather if it brings snow; otherwise, spring/fall temps are for me! In my opinion, any day I can wear sandals or flip flops is a happy day! :) 

Then, to top the morning off, the cafeteria was serving my favorite breakfast: biscuits and gravy!! 

After a busy day at work, I was very excited to join family and friends for the Landrum Christmas Parade. The sense of community is always overwhelming to me and usually leads to happy tears and this year's parade was no exception! I love watching the parade and waving to all of my kiddos from school. There is just nothing like a small town parade!! And, of course, the first sighting of Santa always brings (BIG SMILES)) and shrieks of joy! 

After packing for our weekend trip to Raleigh and tucking the girls in bed, I ended the day with a cup of "Sweet Treat" and a full heart. I am so blessed with what the Lord had already given to me and anxiously awaiting for what He still has in store!