Santa!!

I believe it was last year that I very tactfully explained to Lilia that Santa is not real. I also very clearly explained to her why she can't tell other children and she has been really good about it. I wouldn't trust Alex with such news, but I trust her.
I grew up believing in Santa for a long time. I figured it out maybe by 7 or 8 when I matched the handwriting on the gift tags to my mom's handwriting.
I told Lilia the truth about Santa because I want her to understand that Santa doesn't being presents, but we give one another gifts to celebrate and remember that God gave us His greatest gift; His Son Jesus.
This year has been funny. Lilia has been so excited about Santa. She told me, "I know he's not real, but I'm excited for Santa to bring me presents." She even wrote Santa a list.
Alex takes so many of his cues from Lilia and he has also expressed his excitement in Santa. He has even said, "I miss Santa," at one point.
I don't regret telling her the truth, but it is so fascinating to me that she longs to believe in Santa.
I'm looking forward to Christmas this year and watching the kids unwrap lots of presents. I love their excitement and expressions with each time they rip open Christmas paper. Especially at the ages they are now (3 & 5) it's so sweet, fun and beautiful!

Family

Our Family Christmas Tradition

 Dave, myself, and the kids drive to Wata Farm in Quakertown where we meet up with my parents as well as my brother, sister-in-law and their kids to cut down our own Christmas tree.
Bundled up and with our cart and saw we head into the trees to find the best one.

The Brindley's Tree

Dave cutting down our tree 

Alex was SOOO cold.

The Styles' Tree

Olivia, AnnMarie, Matt & Ellie (17 mo)

 What I really love about this tradition is that we are all together.
Everyone is helping one another, whether it is watching over the kids running through the trees or holding the tree while someone is cutting theirs down. It's really so much fun!

Matt cutting down their tree

"Libby"

This is my second and newest niece, Olivia. Matt and AnnMarie call her "Libby" for short. She is 2 months old. She is such a good baby and so stinkin' cute!

Lilia's Quote of the Day

We are doing advent readings over dinner each night, which I believe is what triggered this question from Lilia.
"What is God's phone number?"
I responded, "He doesn't have one. You just pray to talk to God."

She then asked, "What is God's address?"
I made one up..."777 Golden Street Lane, Heaven of the Universe."

She then proceeded to repeat it over and over with the attempt to memorize it.