Christmas 2016

Christmas was different in a lot of ways this year. We had guests at our house, and spent a good amount of time there. Both boys could now open gifts on their own, and enjoy it. But we missed having Marta/Mimi around. It was always one of her favorite holidays, and too soon after the loss of such an important person in Drew's family. 


Festivities began at the Cooper house......

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service was really special since Shiloh, Grandma Delores, and Peyton joined us!
 

Drew's extended family gathered after church for their usual gift exchange. 

 

Even though I lack photos, Santa brought awesome gifts on Christmas morning. 
 

We celebrated with Drew's family on Christmas day with lunch.

More shenanigans from our house:
 

We didn't get a good picture of the kids in their Christmas jammies, but we did manage a lot of bad ones! I'm pretty sure Griffin got spanked immediately before this.....sorry.
 

And a few taken from Shiloh/sister selfies:
 

The week after Christmas finally allowed time for us to open gifts with the boys, and between Drew and I. 

 

Griffin was amazed at his new BB GUN!!

Finally, the vest he requested to be "like Dad"

 
The holidays can be too stressful. It requires a lot of planning, thinking ahead, purchases, etc. I'm hopeful that next year will be merrier, and that we will all realize the gift of just being together, no matter which house we are at, or the circumstances.