This Christmas was lonely with Mom and Dad on their mission in Charlotte, NC; but thankfully they have instilled a host of family traditions and we were blessed to be a part. We went to Laura & Joe Folkman's for a fabulous feast and our 'Santa Fix' on Christmas Eve. Then we had our own family Christmas, which we all slept in for, at our home Christmas Morning. In the afternoon, Steve's family all came over for dinner and more sharing of gifts and love. Then it was off to Grandma Hunter's for a wonderful time with all the cousins, aunts, uncles, and lots and lots of kids that are growing so fast it's hard to recognize them each year. What a wonderful gift the Lord has given us, the opportunity to be a part of a wonderful, amazing family!

The Peterson's gathered together for their ritualistic annual Christmas Card photo this year a bit earlier than usual, ten days before Christmas! Pretty good for us. This year, James chose to sabotage the picture by tying his tie in such a tight knot it nearly needed to be cut off, and wore light blue jeans. I didn't notice the bluejeans, which I asked him to change half a dozen times while we were getting dressed, until the picture came back! I had to photoshop his jeans into slacks...nice.

We enjoyed a gorgeous Christmas tree in the entry this year, in stunning new Tuscan colors!

Rachel Folkman worked her magic and it all turned out so lovely.

I especially loved the fireplace mantle...which I purposely made 18 inches deep to accommodate my version of Yumm.