Livingstone Christmas!

I love Christmas, but this year, I wasn't excited about it. The lead up felt rushed and busy and Brian was NEVER home. With Kennedy being in Gr. 1- she was gone all day every day and I felt we had no time for our usual crafts and activities. It was hard for me to get into the Spirit of Christmas. I also really wanted to stay home this year, but Brian wouldn't go for it. A few things helped to change my attitude. Service. We tried to focus on giving service this year as a family. It was amazing how I felt the Spirit as we taught our girls to be more like Jesus and think of him as we serve others. Also, I focused on my family. There were lots of things I couldn't control- like being so busy. But I tried to slow down and do simple things with my girls. Brian had to work lots and at first I had a really hard time with that, but I made the best of it (eventually) and did things with the girls. That was nice. We did our family service projects whenever he was around and tried to cherish the time we did have together. 

Then, we went down for Stirling for Christmas and I got excited. I knew it would make Kennedy and Lexi super happy to be playing with cousins and I always have a good time once I'm there. I wasn't thrilled about all the packing of presents into the van and driving far, but it was totally worth it. We LOVE being in Stirling. We really enjoyed being with Kaylani, Shari, Devonee, Jeff, their families and Mom and Dad L. We played lots of games, ate lots of yummy food (maybe too much chocolate and treats for me!!), and saw Frozen. Christmas Eve was our nativity/carol singing/kids piano recital/appetizers night.....then GAMES NIGHT and what else?? KAREOKE! That's right. Livingstone's did Kareoke. The original Livingstone's claim themselves to be non singers...but I was pretty impressed! Maybe not as great as us in-laws, right, Perry and Mark?! We all rocked it! I have videos, but I don't think I'm allowed to post them. But every person participated (besides mom and dad) which I thought was very impressive. 

I was sad to leave. 

Santa got exactly what the girls asked for! Kennedy- a barbie house, and Lexi- a stuffed puppy. They were so happy with their presents. They were at such a great age. They appreciated all they got and were so grateful!! The joy on their cute faces was priceless!! 

After lunch on Boxing Day we left for home. We unpacked and re-packed for a couple days in Edmonton and then Mexico. The girls stayed with my parents for a week while Brian and I flew to the Mayan Riviera. We really enjoyed spending the day with my Hodder family too. My mom and dad prepared the whole dinner and made it fancy with all 14 (with Grandpa Monks) at the table. We exchanged gifts and hung out all day. Then at 9pm, we left for the airport.

Thanks everyone for having us for Christmas. You made our holiday so special!!

Merry Christmas from the Livingstone's!
xoxo