After spending a week in Milwaukee without the father of my children, we were overjoyed when Jeff's plane landed the evening of the 23rd. Having spent that last six months just the four of us in a cozy Shaker apartment, we missed seeing his handsome mug on a daily basis. Having the band back together again, we were ready for the holiday festivities to begin.
Christmas Eve day was spent with Papa, Nany, Uncle Adam and his new girlfriend, Amy. It was a meaningful time as we engaged in conversation, snacked on delicious appetizers, opened presents, and listened to the little lady's sweet serenades on Adam's mini guitar.
These two share an affinity for guitar strumming, singing, and loud music.
In the evening, we transitioned to Elldon and Dawn's full house for our family Christmas present exchange.
As Jeff and I unpacked the van, the little man went missing. With our hands full, he seized the opportunity to saddle up on the riding lawn mower, perhaps assuming his Christmas wish had been granted by the Jolly Bearded One.
Christmas Eve is always a special night since we are unable to gather as family often. Looking around the room, observing our nieces and nephews who are now almost as tall as Jeff and I filled me with such sweet and simple joy.
The lil' divas, born a month and a half apart, fill the home with excitement, playful chatter, giggles and song.
One of our long-standing Christmas Eve traditions, listening to Papa's Christmas devotion. The little lady was (almost) all ears this year, raising her hand often to answer Papa's questions.
Deemed the "best Christmas present of the season" by her daddy, the little lady received her very own mini Taylor guitar from Uncle Adam, a gift so perfect and meaningful for both the little lady and Jeff. (Jeff purchased his own Taylor guitar approximately twenty years ago. I believe it was his first love. I have countless memories of watching him polish, restring, and strum his beloved Taylor.) He and the little lady would take turns playing the guitar throughout our time in Milwaukee, it was not at all humorous to see a 6'5'' man plucking the strings of such a wee guitar.
The little man's secret Santa, cousin Zachary.
The Joe's.
One of my favorite nights of the year as loved ones gather, fill up on sweet and savory treats, laugh, play games, open an enormous pile of presents, and cherish the company of one another.
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