Getting Ready for Christmas!

We have been busy preparing for Sam's first Christmas! Even though we plan to travel for Christmas we still decorate our house to enjoy before and after our travels, as well as during our Christmas party. 

At the Christmas tree lot - unfortunately Christmas trees don't grow in this part of Kansas so we can't cut our own tree. Of course I had to deck out Sam in his Christmas finery.

Sam and Dad - it felt strange getting a tree in 65 degree weather!

Awaiting decorations . . .

Sam could not contain his excitement at having a tree in the living room. This spatula has remained one of his favorite discoveries from the Christmas decoration boxes (thanks Aunt Gina!).

Our Fort Riley "Old Bill" ornament

Sainte Anne de Detroit Church ornament - our wedding church. My cousin, Margaret, sent us this special ornament for the first Christmas we were married.

All decorated! 

St. Nicholas Day

St. Nicholas made his visit last night! Every December 6th St. Nicholas makes his rounds and fills the shoes with some treats and favorite items of the owners. This is a tradition that dates back to the 300s and has been celebrated by Anne Marie's family (probably goes back to German roots on her Mom's side). It is another one of the many exciting times for a child during the Christmas season . . . plus, St. Nicholas is clearly checking in on the children to see if they are going to be worthy of his big visit on Christmas Eve. More posts to come later today about our Thanksgiving trip and Christmas preparations. 

Note: We do not feed Sam Pez - we just thought he would like the Santa dispenser. He likes having a toy in his hand as he moves around the house. Most of the time it is a small piece to a game from a Wendy's kid's meal left by his cousin Michael.