Christmas Eve Eve

Today we cleaned house so that we are ready for the upcoming festivities.  But after we were done and after a nap (for Chloe) we baked some cookies then went for a drive to look at lights, when we got back we decorated the cookies!  It was a fun family day I hope we have a few more of these this week!
As I read all the Facebook posts with all the baking for scratch, candy making and perfect parties and crafts I realize that this year my cookies come from a mix, the gifts were wrapped by a four year old and they look like it, the candy is all from Hershey's and this is a perfect Christmas.  I spent years waiting to create the perfect Christmas for a child.  I am glad I am not stressing about being perfect and taking the time to enjoy the moments and the memories.  I know there will be years where I will be making everything from scratch but this is not one of them and I am OK with that, in fact I love it.

Santa Again

Chloe and I went out to shop for Jim for Christmas and we couldn't resist seeing Santa again. I couldn't resist the second picture!  She insisted on being Action Ladybug Girl.  Santa called her a bumble bee he so enjoys teasing her.  He then asked her what she wanted for Christmas to which she replied "Santa, I told you the last time I was here that I wanted a cashister (cash register)"  She was a little worried about his memory.  I explained to her that is why Santa needs letters and keeps list, it is hard to remember what every one wants.
Later after a pretzel and a drink we walked by Hallmark.  She wanted to go in and look at Jingle and Bell I thought it was harmless but I had to carry her out of the store sobbing.  She was so worried that Santa would not remember that she wanted Jingle and Bell.  I have a feeling that Santa is going to remember.