Christmas as 6

It was really an amazing Christmas for us. We finally had our missing piece to celebrate Christmas with - and after 2 Christmases knowing she was out there, but celebrating a world apart, this Christmas just seemed extra special. 

We didn't have any of our extended family over to celebrate - we felt it would be a little too overwhelming for all of us, so it was very laid back. 

Mig and I started by getting an overnight french toast prepared for the next morning. He is becoming a pro at cracking eggs!

Then we made homemade pizza and cookies. They opened their Christmas Eve gifts from Aunt Amanda (pjs, popcorn, hot chocolate and a Christmas Movie). We all changed into our new pjs and then called Santa. The kids wanted to say they were thinking about him on this busy night!

The kids told Faith how Santa brings presents to the good boys and girls and comes in through the chimneys.

And that the next morning they would find a special gift from him under the tree.

Then we ate our goodies, had some hot cocoa, watched our movie, left Santa some cookies, and went to bed. 

The next morning, the kids got up early with Faith (our early bird) to check the tree. 

Faith had "asked" for a toy phone.

Mig wanted a Power Ranger to sleep with.

Gabe received a plasma globe from Santa and walkie talkies from us.

Selah got a mini-American Girl Doll from Santa and some doll accessories from us. 

This was the first Christmas we celebrated without Memaw and Papa Serna. However, there was a gift from Memaw under the tree for Gabe. Memaw and Gabe shared a love for nutcrackers. She wanted Gabe to have her nutcracker collection. He was so happy. 

Faith really enjoyed presents!!

The after present destruction!

It was a beautiful day, so we had fun outside.

That evening the kids played with their toys - Faith was especially happy with her toy phone. 

It obviously takes pictures, too. 

The next day we were blessed by a visit from Uncle John and cousin John David who were very happy to meet their new niece and cousin.

And then our best-est friends, the Featherstons, came by to have a little Christmas dinner and to meet Faith.

Byron and Jonathan always have such fun together!

And Byron always tries to appear not so short next to the tall guy!

What a blessed Christmas! What a great time of celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior with our new family of 6 and later being able to spend time with our sweet family and closest friends. 

I am reminded of the Third Day video I posted last Christmas. Last year the first verse and chorus were so true for us. "It's Christmas again, but you're not home, Your family is here and yet you're somewhere else alone." We are now (finally) on the last chorus: "It's Christmas time again and now you're home. Your family is here so you will never be alone. So tonight before you go to sleep, I'll hold you in my ams and tell you from my heart, I wish you a Merry Christmas." We are so happy that we could hold Faith this Christmas and whisper Christmas blessings in her ear!!!