“Christmas isn’t just a day – it’s a frame of mind.” -Kris Kringle, Miracle on 34th Street
Paul and I really enjoy celebrating Christmas with just the two of us, so the Saturday before Christmas I made a big supper and set the table with my Christmas china. We stuffed ourselves with Ina Garten’s herb roasted turkey breast, mashed potatoes and garlic green beans.
After exchanging gifts and cleaning up the inevitable mounds of wrapping paper, we enjoyed a John Wayne movie in front of the Christmas tree. It was a cozy evening!
On Sunday morning we were glad to hear our pastor preach (after two weeks off due to snow and the Christmas concert). After church, we loaded up the car and headed across the beautiful snowy mountains to Tennessee!
In my family, Christmas Eve is a big day. We have specific traditions that have been carried out over the years – some have died out as our family dynamics have changed, but many remain. We ate delicious food, exchanged gifts, shared lots of hugs and even more laughs! My two year old nephews provide so much entertainment and fun!
I spent a lot of the holiday in the kitchen with my Mom and we had a great time together. My Dad is always nearby, making jokes and keeping the music playing with just the right album for the moment.
Christmas morning provided a beautiful East Tennessee sunrise. My mom hosted another great meal – a delicious breakfast – where we all gathered around the table and enjoyed the food as well as each other’s company.
The boys now outnumber the girls at our family gatherings (it used to be the 3 girls with my dad, now it’s 3 girls and 5 boys!) but Mom still keeps everyone happy with her cooking!
After hanging out all afternoon, it was time for Christmas dinner! I seriously wish I had a plate of leftovers from this meal in front of me right now. It was so good! My mom had everything decorated so beautifully – she puts a lot of effort into making things really special and I love every detail.
It went by in a blur – but there were sweet moments shared with my sister, funny stories exchanged with my brother in law, memories relived with my Dad and lots of play time spent with my nephews. Paul was able to take three days off for Christmas and I’m so glad he was able to relax a little bit!
I am so thankful for my family! We are not perfect – but we try to show each other love, kindness, grace and support as we walk through the joys and trials of life. Family is forever and I’m so thankful for mine! (the cutest faces have been covered to protect their adorable privacy)
Christmas 2017 / Christmas 2016 /Christmas 2015 / Christmas 2014 / Christmas 2013
High Five for Friday Linkup
Along with Tif from Bright on a Budget, Della at Della Devoted, Becky at BYBMG and Whitney J from Polka Dotty Place, I want to welcome you to the High Five for Friday link-up. High Five for Friday is where we come together to share our favorite posts we’ve written throughout the week. Drop up to 3 links below!
BLOGGERS: Ready to join in the link-up? Link up to THREE of your posts from the past week in the linkup below. We ask that you follow each co-host on social media and link back to the link-up. Thanks for joining us for the High Five for Friday linkup!
Come Home For Comfort 
You had a lovely Christmas! It’s so wonderful to relax and enjoy the people who mean the most. Due to some weather and health issues, some of my family wasn’t able to gather yet. But we will certainly get together soon in the new year! Christmas may be a holiday, but I like to keep the feeling going all year long. 🙂
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I’m sorry you weren’t able to get together with all your family! Hope everyone is feeling better!
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What a fun recap of your Christmas week! I loved seeing the sweet smiles, the beautiful and delicious spreads that were lovingly prepared, and hearing about your traditions of old as well as the new memories made. So happy that you enjoyed a wonderful Christmas! Much love to you, sweet friend! xo!
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Thank you for sharing in my fun! Hugs to you! ❤
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