merry christmas!

For those who know me, you know I am absolutely in love with Christmas. I have over 200 Christmas songs in iTunes at all times, I own a whole drawer full of Christmas socks, and mom and I have a tradition of making Christmas candy to share with family and friends (although I've missed the past couple years because I've been out of state, I was there this year!).
It is just a HAPPY time of year! I am that girl that plays Christmas music all year round, but I start my real listening the day after Halloween. I squeal inside when I see Christmas sections start popping up in stores (and no, I don't care if that means July. I love it!). And, like most other Americans, I also love the Starbucks red cups. These are just a FEW things that scream Christmas.
When David (brother) and I were little, my parents arranged for Santa and Mrs. Clause to come to our house on Christmas morning. Although I was scared out of my pants, it still warms my heart that my parents loved Christmas enough to make it so magical for my brother and I! And all those years when we begged to sleep in the living room and our parents said no... and all the milk and cookies we left out for Santa... ohhh, the memories! 
Growing up, David and I were spoiled with presents from our parents, grandparents, etc. I'd say I was extra spoiled as I am the only girl grandchild on my dad's side. But of course I loved it! Looking back at when we were little, I remember walking into my grandma and grandpa's house in Lancaster, WI  and seeing half the living room literally filled with gifts. We easily got 20 or more. Each. But it wasn't just about the gifts (but let's be honest, as a child... it was the main part), it was about family. Although my grandparents haven't been with us for over ten years, Christmas always makes me think about them - especially my grandma. She was hilarious, caring, loving, a great chef and the queen of party planning.
So as the holidays are here, I truly cherish family. Both mine and Jason's. I love the little things. The family game nights, the Christmas baking and cookie decorating, the sledding, the Christmas movies, EVERYTHING.

Sledding with the Ehrhardt's!

We went to see the movie Frozen. It's so adorable, you have to see it!

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM JASON AND I - WE WISH YOU A VERY HAPPY HOLIDAY!

Today was filled with presents and fun at the Ehrhardt's followed by an evening of presents, dinner and laughter at my house. And the night is just getting started! More photos to come when I'm not so busy with family and everything. (PS - I had this partially prewritten, so no I am not sitting here blogging for a long time while I'm with family. :)
HAPPY HOLIDAYS ALL!