We were so lucky to have a fun chocolate making day with Conor's mom. It's really fun to make chocolates and doesn't take nearly as long as I always think it will. Eating the chocolate is obviously the best part!

All year long, if we're driving through a forest, I always like to identify the trees that would make great Christmas trees. It's so fun to head out into the woods to hunt down a tree. And of course, because lots of trees grow on hillsides it can be a little complicated to find one. We tried out a new location this year and I was very pleased with the scenery. We found a great tree (most were far too big). It looked like a reasonable size in the forest, but when we got it home, we could really appreciate how large it is. We probably cut it down/back by half, but it looks so good and holds the ornaments up better than other trees we've had. I'm very happy with it! We sure liked being out in the snow in the gorgeous mountains with family and good friends.

We are SO lucky to have puppies and grandparents only 15 minutes away! It's nice to go a cuddle puppies for a morning but not have to walk anyone or pick up poop. Heaven knows I'm changing enough diapers daily as is!

My mom visited! And she brought Freyja. My kids love taking her little dogs for walks. I love when my mom comes to visit. We had lots of good chats. We made pots and trimmed them. My mom took care of children which allowed me to get out of the house and do some things. We all enjoyed having her here so much. Thanks mom for driving down for a visit! We love you!

It was a real joy to have Jim and Catherine here with us to share some of the holidays. Before they left, we gave them their Christmas gift. It was really sweet to watch my family gathered around the gift with grandparents. A moment I for sure wanted to capture.