We were supposed to leave on Friday afternoon and make it to Grinnell by later in the evening. Maybe even in time to swing by Casey's and get the taco pizza. Not a pizza, the pizza.
But things don't go as planned. Especially in the midwest in the winter.
So we postponed our drive for 12 hours and spent an extra night at home, which meant an unexpected morning at home that we spent having our own small Christmas. It was still pitch black outside but that just makes the lights on the tree shine a little brighter.
Santa brought Charlotte a play kitchen this year. Bright and shiny she found it under the tree waiting to be fully stocked.
Over the hill, through the snow, to Oma's house we go. And for dinner? The taco pizza. We love coming home.
Oma does Christmas up right. She even talked Santa into making another stop at her house: A vintage doll bed was waiting under the tree for her....with a new blanket for her babies. Pure joy watching her light up as she turned the corner to Oma's living room. The tree, the presents, messy hair, pajamas, all of it was perfect. Even the small tantrum Charlotte threw for who-knows-what.
Later in the day we went to Grandma Faye's house to celebrate with her and Julie. More family, a fantastic dinner, and happiness. We're blessed.
As for our other gifts, we were overloaded with generosity from family and friends. Thank you to everyone. Please give me a 6 month leeway to get you a thank-you. I'm prompt like that.
Lastly - the aprons below were a gift from Oma. Charlotte and Dada have matching ones as well....sassy tiger ones. Rrrrrr. They're adorable; the picture doesn't do them justice. I'm trying to talk Oma into selling them on Etsy. So cute!! Who doesn't want one?

