Christmas

We made it through Christmas! I never expected that I would still be pregnant on Christmas.  The week surrounding Christmas was a bit of a mental challenge.  My head kept worrying about all the potential scenarios of when this baby would be born.  Would it be just before Christmas, but we'd still be in the hospital?  Would I go into labor during Christmas Eve Mass? Is this baby going to be born on December 25th? My head was going a bit crazy but I kept praying that God would calm my mind and just be patient.

Looking back, everything worked out in just the perfect way.  We were able to go to Christmas Eve Mass as a family, opened presents at our house on Christmas morning, celebrated with my extended family Christmas evening, and even managed to make it to my parents on the 26th for our family Christmas.  If you had told me a month ago that I would get all that in just days before Madison arrived, I wouldn't believe you.  (The next post will feature our favorite Christmas present ever, Madison Genevieve Joerger.) 

John and Melissa hosted the KC Joerger's + Bob, Melanie, and Family + Grandma Joerger for a lovely evening.  I think its funny how Tom's small fraction of family that was together this evening is still bigger than when my whole extended family gets together.  

(When we took this picture, I was sure it would be the last one of the "Three of Us"...haha, nope!)

Christmas Eve brought us a special gift, snow!

Savannah could not wait to get out and play in it.  Her feelings toward the snow have definitely changed since last year.

The magic and awe of Christmas

Savannah wanted to help shovel the drive.  She is such a little helper!

Our Christmas Eve Mass plan was just going to be Tom, Savannah, and myself going to church together.  Then one by one, my mom, dad, and sister couldn't resist coming with us.  It was nice to have everyone together to celebrate.

This was the first holiday we celebrated at Holy Spirit and it did not disappoint.  In my opinion, our choir is wonderful!! It was a great kick off to this holy weekend.  

Savannah refused to be held, so she had to fight the belly to be seen in this picture.  

 Savannah loves trying on other people's shoes.  She's got a bit of growing to do.

Tom's family tradition is that Jesus brings their presents.  We wanted to keep that tradition alive in our family as well.  On Christmas Eve, Savannah got to open one present before bed, which was a book from Jesus.  She was so excited about her new book.





Last year my mom got us all matching pajamas.  She wanted to continue that this year, but couldn't quite find what she was looking for.  Instead of settling for something she didn't LOVE, she decided she would make us coordinating PJs.  Is there anything she can't do!?

Savannah was so excited that Santa brought her a new baby.

Tom got me some cozy pjs and Savannah had to be the first to try them on. She had gotten used to seeing me hike my maternity pants big over my belly so, of course, she has to be my mini me and pull her pants up too. I love how much she watches and observes us. It really hold you accountable for your words and actions.

 Santa tipped me off that a new baby doll was coming, so Tom and I got her a pack n play for her baby.  She is so cute putting her baby down for nap.

 We had such a relaxing morning, just the three of us.  We took our time opening stockings and gifts.  It was fun to watch Savannah get so excited to help us open presents.  She could have cared less which ones were for her.  She just loved being a helper.

 December 26th - Since Madison still hadn't arrived, we were able to go to my parents in the morning and have our own "Christmas Morning".  Again, this was a relaxing and easy morning full of good food, presents, and quality time spent together.  My parents don't care when we celebrate, as long as we are all together.  I love spreading the Christmas fun out over a few days.

 Katie gave Tom a cribbage board made from an elk horn.  She met someone in Montana this summer that hand crafted these amazing boards.  We've already put it to use!

 Snuggles with Grandpa

 This was officially our final family picture before our favorite present arrived the next day.  We had a great last day as a family of three but were definitely exited about the journey ahead of us!

...up next - BABY MADISON!!!