Everything Merry

As I write this, my best pal is gearing up for his second semester of Kindergarten, and my mom heart is not very happy. I’m so proud of my little buddy and how well he has grown up despite a few traumatic years. He is thriving in school, and for that I am thankful. But it so quiet at home during the day – even with a newborn! I walk through the door after dropping him off, and then I anxiously watch the clock till I can go pick him up. I personally think it’s good to miss him. I just love being his mom!

We tried to pack as much Christmas fun into this season as possible. I tend to overdo things, overthink things, and overpack our calendar. Part of it is because I really do love all things Christmas and don’t want to miss out. But I would be lying if I didn’t say it’s also to keep busy and not think about who is not with us.

Today I’m sharing a recap of our many December adventures. Liam said Christmas 2023 was more fun than 2024, but he will not be going to NYC every Christmas! Here’s a look at my subpar attempt this year!

I was able to join Liam for his class Christmas party. They exchanged gifts with classmates, had snacks, made crafts, and had the best time.

He loves his sweet teacher!

She gifted all the students with Rudolph the book and the toy.

These are my two youngest piano/voice studio students. I just love them so much!

(photo used with permission)

I sang at our community theater’s Christmas at the Roxy. My number one fan came to support me.

Then it was his turn to sing! He sang with the children at church…

And his class at school!

I had two fun Christmas parties at my house. This photo is from my MomCo (formerly MOPS) discipleship group party. This friend pictured here with Judson and me is possibly the sweetest, most encouraging gal I’ve ever met. She’s one of those who meets you for the first time and it feels like you’ve known her forever. Love you, Lindsay!

Liam and I headed to Canton for their annual city of lights event with my sweet college roommate. I’m so thankful to still have her friendship all these years later.

We went to Christmas in Decatur, the Newton County seat, and did all the fun and fabulous things. It was Judson’s first “outing” as well.

No clue what I’m doing here, talking as usual, but we are all lined up and ready for our Christmas musical at church.

Liam had the best day of school ever when he wore Christmas jammies, watched The Polar Express, and had cookies and cocoa before dismissing at noon.

Liam and I rode our church’s float in the Newton Christmas parade.

We took our Christmas photos as a family of 3 for our Christmas cards. This was my favorite shot!

Liam and Judson both made handprint/footprint Christmas ornaments.

And Liam made some of his own at home. We love crafts!

We had our annual North Pole Breakfast on the first Saturday after Thanksgiving. I made a Rudolph pancake for Liam and snowmen for the rest of us.

My annual Fallelujia party was postponed in case I randomly went into labor, so we had a post-birth “Hollylujia” party instead. You know you’re a good friend when you show up early to help get ready but end up on the couch with the kids and a cat. This is also my photographer from the Christmas photo shoot above. She’s the best! Especially with wild, wiggly kiddos!