Christmas Morning and Day at Maw-maw's house

Have you ever felt so blessed to the point of guilt? Oh my gosh, after opening tons of gifts the night before Santa still had to come. After the kids saw what Santa brought and ripped open their presents from us Kellyn still asked if there were more. At that moment I felt like I had indulged my kids on someone Else's birthday and robed them of the gift of gratitude. Never again will I buy them so many things. Next year I want to give each kid only 3 presents then go as a family to volunteer somewhere. A friend of mine suggested giving them something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something education. Another friend told her parents to not give her children anything that required batteries. Those are both good ideas. Max seemed to be very overwhelmed by the amount of toys and shredded paper. He kind of became a grumpy Grinch on Christmas morning. Then we went to my grandmother's house where the kids opened even more presents, ugh. He and I both felt like we were slowly watching the true meaning of Christmas slip away. Everything we had been trying to teach our kids about giving and gratitude and baby Jesus seemed to just fly right out the window with the opening of each new toy. I don't mean to sound like Debby Downer because it really was a fun and joyous time. But when we got home from Maw-maw's house I put Rhett down for his nap and instead reading Kellyn a book before her rest time Max began throwing old toys away in a trash bag. "Simmer Down! We already donated a big box of toys at the beginning of December. You need to go rest while I clean up the living room and organize everything." So he did and had everything put away by the time he woke up. He seemed much calmed after his nap, thank goodness. Here are some pictures of our Christmas.  

Santa brought Rhett a new racetrack.

Rhett always wants his blankie with him now.

 

       Rhett has started tackeling his sister just like my baby brother used to tackle me.

They are really started to act more and more like siblings now.

                                             Rhett got an apron with his name on it and a cap gun.

             

                                           Showing Uncle Doc and Uncle Jacob his new gun.

 

Kellyn was in the back watching a movie and did not want to stop to take a picture and neither did Maw-maw.

What is up with my brother and mom. Can't they just be happy when we take pictures.

It is always when I get to see my baby brother. I just wish he talked more. Merry Christmas! Happy Birthday, Jesus and thank you for changing everything!