We have been winding down over here and welcoming the chance to use these short winter days for rest and renewal. These children make me feel like I get the chance to relive that childhood magic of Christmas all over again. Each year, no matter how challenging, gets to end with the holidays….when we are reminded of the gift of each other. When the simplicity of that first Christmas asks you to make room in your heart for more love, forgiveness, and compassion. I’m grateful for that chance.

Those cute little faces that have minor anxiety when mom goes to the mailbox without them. This pic ended up landing on the Washington Post! Before we sign off for the year, I wanted to welcome you all into our home for a cup of coffee or cocoa;) So how about at least a glimpse of what’s been going on around here…

I don’t think those 5 noses pressed against the glass will soon forget that unexpected southern snow fall!

 

…or the backyard toboggan rides.

 

 

Gabriel and Azelie. My bookends. There is plenty of butting heads around here, but there is also a good deal of this. Balances out pretty well.

 

We put away the Christmas books all year so they are like new come December!

I did a total of two crafts with the kids, and one was a fail! So I’ve set the bar real high for years to come.

 

 

 

I never thought they could be so excited for something as simple as decorating cookies. Any of you parents know this is more work for us than it feels worth most times, so now I appreciate my own mothers dedication to traditions now more than ever!

 

Handmade paper wreath by Linen and Cake

 

 

 

 

Introducing them to White Christmas.

I wasn’t in a rush this year to have everything decorated at the start of the month, and it was nice to build the anticipation of Christmas with a little here and there each week.

We wish you all a very merry holiday season, and look forward to starting a new year with you in 2018!

With love,
The Liesemeyer crew

 

Sources:
Mantel Houses – Pottery Barn Kids (last year, here’s some similar ones)
Textured throw, faux fur throw
Candelabra
Wreaths and Tablescape – Bloom That
Pom garland
Plush pillows, Paper Wreath – Linen and Cake, Textured duvet

The rest of the sources you can find under our house to home tab!