Here is our tree! Note the large gifts in front in an attempt to keep Alex away. It doesn't work that well because he can streach pretty far. I think the tree looks much nicer in person–you can see the lights, ordaments and garland a bit better. 

We are now entering into the "fun" part of the season. With the exception of two cookie exchanges (also fun) all our social obligations are done and now it's just family time. So maybe I mean the "relaxing time".  I enjoy the social parts (parties & open houses I was going to tell you all about but just got to busy) but it's a bit of a relief they are done. Last weekend we went up to Marion for our first open house.  My parents watched the boys so we were able to have fun talking with friends and the boys had fun with Grandpa & Grandma.  Sunday night was open house #2, but I stayed home with Alex–he needed his sleep after the late night before and missing his morning nap for church.  Monday night we hosted some people here, so I had spent Sunday and Monday cleaning like crazy. Tuesday night was our only date night of the month (usually we get two) so we HAD to take advantage of that.  The next few days were spent recovering from all the late nights.  Then, last night was the big one: the company party. Lots of good food, free booze (for those who like that kind of thing) and a good band made for a fun time. 

Now, my plans for this week? Bake cookies (for the above mentioned cookie exchanges).  Wrap presents (just having the shopping done isn't enough at this point!). OH! And finish up the family calendars–the ones I started in October!  Yikes!  I've had these last 2 steps to do for awhile now!

Mainly though, my plans are to enjoy Christmas activites with Will.  Will & I were talking about how many days until Christmas–we made a Christmas count down chain. (Each day has a small thing we'll do together on it.)  He said "That's lots of days, Mommy!"  Remember how long those days seemed when you were a kid? Smile Now all I can do is think about how fast they go and try to enjoy them with the boys.