Christmas season in full swing!

Christmas is definitely one of our favorite times of year. We always start off making sure the tree is up right away. Most of the time that happens the day after Thanksgiving, but sometimes we might even do it the weekend before Thanksgiving. This year, Jaylyn was excited to help us get everything out the day after Thanksgiving. It is definitely fun experiencing Christmas with a soon-to-be four-year-old. Although, suddenly this year she wasn't so keen on being lifted up to put the star on top. T.J. holds her up to the ceiling all of the time, but this was just one of those moments. (I have a picture showing her face in horror as T.J. is trying to get her to put the star up. Funny! But, I probably shouldn't post that one.)

Fun hanging ornaments

The next tradition that usually takes place a family Christmas party down in Ellington, MO. This is T.J.'s dad's side of the family. It is always the first Sunday in December and it is nice to visit with family that we don't get to see that often. You have to drive on some very curvy roads to go there. I think there are a few family members that are not always in the best shape after the ride. But, there is always a huge lunch spread! Adley definitely enjoyed that part of the event. She finished off her food and then helped Jaylyn finish her plate. Another yummy tradition is the wonderful Christmas cookie exchange. Everyone brings their cookies and then you load up your container with samples of everyone else's to take home. The kids are always anxious for the gift part. Each child their always gets a present to open! What is a Christmas party without presents? Then it is time for the Christmas card exchange. Everyone loves to go home and open up all of the cards. I also enjoying having an early bunch of cards to hang up in the house. Overall it is a lot of fun.

The family eating and visiting

Jaylyn and cousin Dalayna enjoying their presents and new
ornaments from Grandma and Grandpa Geist.

The Christmas card sorting

Look at all those cookies! Jaylyn and Dalayna enjoyed them.

Adley with cousin Brooke

Adley with cousin Dawn

Adley with Great-Grandma and Great-Grandpa Geist

Adley with cousin Bruce

Adley certainly enjoyed visiting with all of the family. I think she likes Christmas too.