Thus Far This December

We are only home for a few more days, then it's off to dual-vacation madness! We're excited to see everyone, stressed about getting everything done before it's time to go, and overwhelmed by the chaotic mess that has become our livingroom, bedroom, kitchen... well, pretty much the whole house.

We weren't even going to decorate for Christmas {or at least not get a tree} this year since we really won't be home for much of the holiday season. Somehow, after much discussion, we decided to scrap practicality and do it anyway... and I'm really glad we did. It made our house feel cozy and happy. You know, like Christmas! :) I love turning off the lights and dancing with James (Derek would be fun, too, but he's been MIA for the past few weeks. Poor guy. He's been so stressed and just run ragged!) with the glow of the Christmas tree lights and the soft sounds of Christmas music in the background. James loves the festivity of it all, too, and is just so proud of our "tee" that he will point it out to any and all guests-- as if they didn't notice it already! :) Too cute.

Anyway- here are some pictures of our livingroom and lives THUS FAR this December.

James was really excited that we brought the "tee" into the house!

Et voila!

James eating peanut butter on saltine crackers. Mmm... nutritious!

This is why James was eating in the livingroom... that's right... BooBahs! I'm a horrible mother. I know.

Here's a close-up of the craziness at the bottom of the previous picture. It's actually James' very own Nativity Set... he especially loves the "baby" and the "baaa"s (sheep- not pictured apparently). :)

MY Nativity Set. I LOVE it... not exactly sure why, but I really do!

More decor.

And here is James with his iPod. Okay, it's Derek's. But as Derek sat jamming/studying, James discovered that those little buds spouted music. It was really cute to see his reaction.

A video, if you care to ACTUALLY see. :)

It snowed! James seemed to be a fan.