This year was different than any year in the past...we stayed home as our little family of 4 for Christmas Eve and morning. Last year was the first year we didn't celebrate Christmas morning at my parents house but everyone made the trip down to our house so we were still altogether. I actually love going to our own church on Christmas Eve since that is one of the most memorable things from my childhood. This year, Natalie was able to stay in service with us. We tried initially to keep Aubrey but that didn't even last for the start of service. She's still a little too young to sit still and be quiet for others to enjoy, but next year she'll be too old to be in the kids ministry for Christmas Eve service. Service was a lot more low-key compared to last year, but we were able to enjoy it with friends, then headed back to our house for some tacos with the Vandiver 4!
We were also lucky enough to have Dave Frey from Sidewalk Prophets perform with our worship band since he grew up in our church...what a great experience!
The best part of Christmas Eve service!
This was the first year that Natalie actually "gets it" and not just Santa, but she really grasped the whole story about baby Jesus, especially thanks to kids church and the Little People Nativity toy. She was excited to spread out the Reindeer Food for Santa's reindeer and both girls got to pick out one cookie each for Santa. They helped me write the letter to Santa, too. So much fun! I love Christmas morning and always have, so it was a lot of fun to hear Natalie's reaction to her new Frozen bike and other presents waiting for her out at the tree! Neither of the girls got up any earlier than normal. Usually Natalie comes walking into our room first thing with her eyes half open, but Christmas morning, she headed straight to the tree and was super excited to tell us about the bike Santa had left her...it was so cute to listen to her! When Aubrey woke up, she just wanted to go straight to the table to eat Cheerios, so that's what she did. I think next year will be much different for Aubrey! Both girls had fun opening their gifts and got to play with some of them until we left around 1 to head up to South Bend for more Christmas fun!
Natalie got her Belle doll she really wanted from Santa and Aubrey got her own 'computer.'
Christmas night, we had fondue dinner (tradition)...yum! The day after Christmas, we woke up at my parents house and opened presents like it was Christmas morning (minus Santa). All of us adults saved our stockings to open that morning. The girls are super independent opening their gifts and did a great job taking turns to open their presents.
Bobby found the pickle this year!
It was abnormally warm the day after Christmas so Natalie got to use her Frozen bubbles outside!
Natalie loves Grandma and Grandpa B's new decorations!
Aunt Krista's new dog...Pepper!
I think she's the cutest!
Photobomber Rusty!
The Saturday after Christmas was the extended Brodzinski Christmas. There were 30 of us there and although we were missing a few, it was a great night!
Our final Christmas gathering was with Bobby's family on Sunday. We spent all day at his parents house with all the grandkids and families. It went by really fast!
We are so blessed with family and friends and we all very much appreciate all of the lovely gifts, but most of all appreciate the time we were able to spend together with you all!
Merry Christmas! May your 2015 be just as blessed!
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