O Christmas Tree...

O Christmas tree....how (this is where it ends for us). Here's why: We put up our Christmas tree a while ago..the Monday after Thanksgiving, to be exact. It was a wonderful evening that started with two crabby kids and Garth Brooks singing Christmas tunes, that ended with two joyful children, two proud parents, and the bellowing of O Christmas Tree at the top of our lungs. (AJ even got in on the action, letting out occasional squeals of delight). Justin and I could not come to an agreement on the lyrics of this favorite Christmas song, however. Unfortunately, I don't think I'm right with "O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree...how evergreen your branches." I think I have to let him have this one with "O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, how lovely are your branches." It just sounds better.

In other exciting Christmas news..

Santa Claus is comin' to town. That's right, you heard it here first, from the Ryan family. Santa Claus was kind enough to make a stop in town to visit all the little kiddies. The Ryan kids, of course, were in on the action.

Kendra was a bit shy at first. She walked in, hiding behind my legs, and her chest was glued to my knees. After I pried her off, daddy had to offer a little extra comfort before the shyness would wear off.

Finally, after a little bribery by Santa's elf with a sack full of treats and some encouragement from a little friend, Kendra worked up the courage to visit with Santa and talk about all the things she wants him to bring her....and trust me, the list is much longer than Santa's budget will allow.

Alexis was more interested in Santa's beard, the tree, and the other people there than she was in Santa...but at least she didn't cry.

All in all, the Ryan kids had a great time with Santa! I hope they've all been good this year!