I always have the best intentions in December.

I plan to bake, and create a warm and inviting and SPOTLESS home. To make homemade gifts. To deck the halls and Fa la la la la.

I never accomplish it all. The season comes with a hustle and bustle all it’s own.

But what I did accomplish this Christmas season matters more than anything.

The time spent with all those I love. We made time for each other. Special time. Christmas-y time. And an abundance of it.

We carried on traditions, and shared them with the littles, so they can carry them on with their own, long after we’ve gone.

It is phenomenal, the things children pick up on. Here are a few holiday observances, from the mind of Kylie Ann:

“Mimi, where’s the music? We have to have Christmas music for our feast! We always have Christmas music for our feast!”

And my favorite…

“Kiki, get you’r camera! You’re the picture lady. You always take people pictures. You’re SO lucky to get to take everyone’s picture!”

Oh, yes I am, sweet girl.

Some favorite moments from our time with family this Christmas.

As we bowed our heads in prayer over Christmas dinner, my Daddy’s voice quivered as he thanked our Lord for the best gift this Christmas. Life. Being in each other’s presence.

And then, my favorite Christmas tradition commenced,

“And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, ‘Fear not: for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.’ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.'”

And that’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.

I’d love to stay, but I really “mustache.” There are cookies to take to our neighbors, and praises to be sang tonight.

Sleep in heavenly peace.