Happy Christmas Eve from the Baxter, Shorey, Bossom Clan!

Magic Months: NYC

On Thursday we went and spent most of a day in New York City to see it at Christmastime. We've always talked about going but never have. My mom especially has wanted to go, so we all chipped in and made it happen. One of the coolest things about living where we do is that so many cities and places are within a day trips travels. No need for hotels or packing, just a simple little day in a place so full of atmosphere and festiveness. We enjoyed ourselves.

Didn't have my camera out much, but did grab a few photos.

Happy Christmas week!  

Magic Month: Ornament Exchange

"Lord Jesus Christ, long promised One,

For all You are and all You've done,

Let thankful hearts fill all our days

With songs of love and ceaseless praise."

All Praise to you, Eternal Lord - Martin Luther

After church on Sunday, we enjoyed a delicious soup buffet and ornament exchange with everyone.

Days like yesterday make me particularly grateful for the people we've had put in our lives, for messages that are strong reminders of why today matters - even when it feels like it doesn't and beautiful Christmas songs sang by thankful voices. 

Magic Months: Decorating

Our house is just about all decorated. I love the transformation of our usual living space into what feels like a new little world. The sound of festive music, smell of tasty things baking, people whispering about gift ideas for each other and all around warm glow - it's all so full of fun and expectancy.

Jack turned 1.

Our baby boy turned one this week. It's already impossible to imagine what life was like without him. Not a day goes by where he doesn't bring large amounts of joy into our life. He's walking and running around all over the place these days... definitely keeping us on our toes. :)

I have to admit, I woke up on the morning of Jack's birthday way more nostalgic than I expected to. Constantly saying, "At exactly this time last year we were..." fill in the blank. It's crazy to have this kid of our own and we couldn't be more happy than that he is ours and that we get to teach him love and grace and so many joys in life. 

As you will see here, Jack is a very blessed boy and has so many people constantly loving him. Both Bill's and my family live within 10 minutes of each other which means we get to celebrate almost everything twice. It's a pretty sweet deal. We celebrated with my family on Monday, we first went to get our Christmas tree, then out to dinner and home to treats and gifts. Then Tuesday we had pizza, cake and gift's with the Baxter's. I think Jack was starting to think this is normal life now. 

My mom and dad got him this rocking chair and he was so excited about it. It was adorable.

Tuesday night's celebrations...

He got some pretty cool stuff. After opening each gift he laughed and clapped. 

We love you little man!