The 13 Days of Christmas

Christmas is always a special time in the Crane household. Preparations are well underway to make this another memorable celebration. This year we kicked of the holiday season at the Dublin tree lighting, where we saw Santa's reindeer, danced on stage, and had our first visit with Santa.

Next we went to Ava's school to have breakfast with Santa, play some games, and shop for gifts.

Then it was on to pick out the family Christmas tree. This is one of our favorite traditions. Our tree is full of sentimental ornaments from our late grandparents, our childhoods, pictures of the kids, and homemade treasures. It is always fun to revisit fond memories with the kids! You will notice that each kid had to have a turn putting on the star. Aaron just couldn't hold all three!

Another fond memory is the holiday preschool performance. Lily did a fantastic job singing! She had quite the fan club this year.

A new experience we had this year was taking a ride on the Polar Express. We rode the train, had hot chocolate and treats, wrote Santa letters, and visited with Santa and Mrs. Clause- AGAIN!

There are a few traditions we have started in the past few years. One is daily visits from Sam, our Elf. The girls love finding him every morning. He can be a little naughty at times. One morning he was found hiding with the girls' candy.

Another tradition we have come to love is lighting our Advent wreath at dinner each night and saying a special prayer. Even Bennett knows when to fold his hands!

Experiencing Christmas through the eyes of a child is such a joy and a blessing! It is so much fun celebrating old traditions and establishing new ones for our family that will last for many years.