Christmas 2014

20 years from now. . . we won't remember who got what for Christmas.  We will probably forget most of the parties, and chaos associated with the holiday in general but what we will remember are the times we spent with family and the traditions that have made Christmas what it is for our children.

We will most likely remember all of the Christmas Eve Nativities and Uncle Ryan and Dad who still want to dress up and have a part in the production. I mean seriously what is better than a shepherd with a water noodle crook, and costumes made out of sheets, pillowcases, and blankets.  The star even has a roll and was played by Carlee this year, until she got tired and then Blaine took over as star holder /inn keeper.  

The kids will most likely remember Anna who has spent the past two and a half years celebrating and spending time with our family.  She doesn't have any family close by and so we have become her family.

They will forget what Santa left them, but will probably remember the anxious waiting at the top of the stairs and being able to wake up mom and dad at 6:30 to go check out their stockings.

Christmas is magical.  Not because of what we get, but because of what it represents.  Love!  Love of God, love of family, and love for people you don't even know, because that's what Christmas is.  That is what Christ Is.  Love!  And that is what we all will remember when we think about Christmas 20 years from today.

(Along with Grandma and her camera. . . capturing all the wonderful Prior family moments.)