A few days before Christmas we headed down to my mom and dad’s to see them.

And the kids had the best time!

One of the days we were there was shorts weather.  Seriously!

(And that night we drove around their neighborhood in mom’s convertible to look at the amazing Christmas lights they have there.  We thought it was the best!)

I’m so happy we were able to see them, and my sister’s family was there too, so the kids had all sorts of fun together.

All sorts of awesome.

My mom gave Alice a Cheeto, so Alice took the bag.

Alice and Aunt Rachel.

Matilda opening gifts.

Matilda reading Tom a story.  This was kind of a dream-come-true moment for me.  LOVE.

Cutes.

Alice loves crafts more than you.  Or me.  It’s true and it’s awesome.

Hey! Wouldn’t it be great to get a picture of these cuties all together in front of the tree?!  I wish someone named Kate had thought of that.  Instead, all I’ve got is this random shot.  They were so cute, I swear!

This is what happens when Alice gets a mermaid for Christmas – JOY!  And then dancing.

Everyone helping Alice open her growth chart painted by Aunt Rachel.  I love it! (I mostly love the other side not shown here. ;))

Spots.

Optimus Prime!!  He was the happiest boy EVER this day.  For sure.

This was Tom — for the rest of the weekend, he looked just like this.

Cutest little Gus you ever did see.

Hey, lollypop.

Happiness is relaxing on a camo beanbag with all of your transformers and an elf cup.

Ready to decorate cookies!

Seriously cute serious decorators.

Umm…I think Alice may have eaten one.  Or five.

We had a wonderful time with Mom and Dad and Rachel’s family, and I’m hopeful that next year I actually get pictures of Mom and Dad and Rachel’s family. 😉

Christmas wish for 2014!

LOVE.