It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

...Well, at least as much as it ever does in California. =]

We finally have a tree this year!  Thanks for the sale, Big Lots!

I'm pretty much in love with my framed Santa postcards.  Found those puppies for a bargain online.

Nativity we got for our wedding.

Nativity I earned in Achievement Days. 

Olive Wood Nativity Dan's Grandma and Grandpa Snow got for us in Israel!

Our "Experiences" Advent.  Each day has a new Christmas/winter related activity for us to do!

First ornament from our "Ornament Advent".  This one has all our memories from this year on it.

 This Christmas I've really been thinking about how I want Christmas to be for our kids.  I loved Christmas so much growing up (what kid doesn't?).  It wasn't just about the presents though.  I cherished the time with my family, and all the time spent making memories.  I love the traditions my family has, and I can't wait to share them with mine.  I've also been thinking of traditions of our own that we can start.  Dan has been teasing me a lot lately because I'm such a Pinterest addict, and I'm always trying new things I find on there...especially Christmas ideas.  I can't help it!  I just love Christmas traditions! I love them because they help us pull away from the often-times overly commercialized version of Christmas, and focus on the spirit of joy, gratitude, and goodwill that we are supposed to hold dear at this time of year.  And all the year, really.  Who doesn't want more of that?

Also, I'm really excited to see my family in a few weeks!