Christmas Prep

I can't believe that Christmas is almost here. When I thought about my maternity leave one of the reasons I really wanted an extended leave was to be able to actually enjoy the holidays with my baby without the stress of lesson planning, grading papers, finals, etc. I am so glad we were able to make that happen. Even without work, the holiday season still seems to get busy and go much too quickly.

Kylie has been a trooper while I worked on getting ready for Christmas this year. We have been able to do the majority of our shopping during the day and have avoided some of the crowds that way. Kylie got in her share of car seat time and stroller rides which usually led to a nice nap during our shopping trips. Even if she was awake she typically just looked around and took it all in. She might turn out to be a serious shopper. Look out daddy!

The gifts are wrapped and under the tree

One of my favorite parts of Christmas is the lights and decorations. This year I actually decided to put up less than in the past. I just couldn't justify fewer snuggles with Kylie in order to hang more garland and lights.

Tomorrow we will begin the celebrating with the first of six Christmas gatherings! I am looking forward to this week with our families and the extra special memories we will have with Kylie this year.