Everything is set out—croissants for morning breakfast sandwiches, warm cookies on the stove, stacked up in plates and tupperware, waiting to be packed up in the morning for the family party. The bike and play kitchen have been assembled, mostly with ease except for my personal low moment, frustrated by my growing belly and shortness of breath trying to retrieve the screw I’d dropped on the ground for the fourth time (James stepped in valiantly to rescue me on that one).

We’ve watched some favorites as the nights gone on, Family Man, The Santa Clause and SNL best Christmas skits. I am thrilled and thankful in my Christmas Eve cocoon, filled with excitement for the kids and what the morning holds. At peace as the rain patters against the skylight and gutters gush outside our windows, and we look on at the sparkling lights and burning fire.

I have so much I am thankful for in this moment, and am struck by the beautiful hope, peace, reconciliation and love brought with this season.

O come, Desire of the nations, bind
in one the hearts of all mankind;
bid every strife and quarrel cease
and fill the world with heaven’s peace.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a goodnight!

This was such a fun day! We ventured out deep into the woods of Soquel (which is neither far nor woody..) to find a tree at a wild tree lot, and to our dismay, we found only the most gargantuan trees possible. So we stopped by another quaint little spot, off the beaten path called “home depót” 😉 And well, it worked for us so here we go, she’s up people!!

Christmastime been so fun this year, the kids’ excitement is through the roof and most especially, decorations. Although they mostly want to dig through boxes for possible toys. Or to “decorate” with one item and get their ever so prized hot chocolate.

There’s so much joy in it, counting down, lighting the Advent candles at church, preparing Continue reading “Snippets of Christmas” →

This Christmas season was filled with so many non material gifts for our family–so much quality time being near the top of the list. We started off break with a great end to James’ school semester and a fog of sickness. Whilst recovering, we did day trips to local spots, an evening at a fun light show over the hill from us, had drinks with friends and spent some time catching ourselves up on life and looking at the upcoming year. Continue reading “Bits and pieces” →