"Oh Christmas Tree..."

I guess it's about time I update my blog again!  ...been hanging out on FB too much these days.  I think it just fits in with the busier schedule of the holiday season a bit more.  

These photos are from our day at the tree farm, the weekend following Thanksgiving.  It is such a joy to have Khloe home for her 2nd Christmas with our family.  She really seems to be taking it all in this year, and definitely understands what everything is all about.  She had so much fun running around at the tree farm, helping to pick out the perfect tree.  She even found one "just her size!" ...though we decided to pass on that one and give it a little more growing time! ;)

 

Afterwards, the kids took a photo with Santa.  Let's just say, he wasn't the most smiley Santa I've seen.  I guess it was towards the end of his 'shift'! ;)  In anycase, Khloe didn't seem to mind, she was all about the candy in his little bag! 

Then it was off to visit the petting zoo.  The kids all enjoyed playing with the animals.  Khloe wasn't nearly as skeptical this year.  In fact, she was a little TOO brave at times!  The little goats were my favorite.  There are so small and sweet.  Except for the three that gave literal meaning to the phrase "butting heads!"  LOL!!  :)

Off to the horse wagon ride!  Since we somehow managed to be the only ones on this particular ride, the driver invited Khloe to sit up on the big seat with him and let her hold the reins.  {I wish I would've been able to snap this photo from the FRONT.}  Too cute!  She had fun and even sang "Oh Christmas Tree" as we rode along.  

 

 

We ended our time at the farm with a little warm up around the bonfire and a bite to eat inside the Cub Scouts tent. 

Moments like these are amongst my favorite of family traditions.  As the kids grow older, I realize I have become much more sentimental and cherish these times even more! 

With Breanna and Dawson so busy with extra curricular activities, they just couldn't seem to find the time to help decorate the tree this year, so it was up to Khloe and mama to get the job done!  She is pretty much my little shadow and LOVES to help with almost anything!

Her favorite is still in the kitchen helping to bake cookies though!  She LOVES to run the mixer and pour in all the ingredients.  What would I do without my little "Princess" in the kitchen?! ;)  

We are 'almost' done with our Christmas shopping and will likely finish up on our anniversary this coming Friday.  I know, I know!! ~ not the most 'romantic' way to spend the day, but I cherish every moment alone with the hubs I can get, even if that means a shopping-date together without the kids ...and he is more than willing to shop {on my terms and at my pace, in the stores of my choice} on our anniversary, so I'll take what I can get! ;)   I'm sure we will make time to enjoy a nice dinner out together, as well. 

I hope this post finds you all in good health and enjoying the joys of the season.  Don't forget to take the time to pray for those less fortunate, or those who may be spending this Christmas alone without a loved one, for the first time.  Every day truly is a GIFT and we need to purpose not to take that for granted!   

Blessings & Hugs!! <><