homemade christmas

This year for Christmas I wanted to get away from the craziness that happens whenever we take the kids shopping for presents for each other.  I want to teach them the joy of giving,  But whenever we go into a store all they seem to think about is what they want.

So this year we are trying something new.  All the gifts they give to each other and to their parents will be something that they have made themselves.  Which really translates into a lot of projects for mom to help everyone with.  Some of the projects we have made:  Jewelry hangers for mom and the girls made by Matt, stuffed owl, pig and letter pillows made by the girls.

As our gift to Dad we decided to go out and do a surprise photo session with me and kids.  The kids came home from school and we all got dressed up and hair done. Then we headed to the golf course to take pictures.  It was super cold but sunny and clear, perfect lighting. The kids were very cooperative. Even Grace, whose little hands were freezing, smiled very sweetly.  And we got some cute pictures to surprise Dad with on Christmas. We hope he loves them!