With kids, it’s the little things
The Christmas holiday is my favorite of the year. I love the smells, the joy and the wonder of the season – especially through the eyes of my daughter.
The morning after N’s 5th Christmas, I am again reminded that simple gifts are often the most lasting and important: Drinking “Daddy’s special hot juice” just before we light the tree for the first time, sprinkling reindeer food in the yard (so they can find our house) and waking up at 5:30am to my little girl screeching with glee, “Mommy!! Daddy!! There are gifts under our tree!!”
Still, N had a modest “haul” this year as we all continue to learn the lesson of less is more. She got a new “big girl” bed, a few puzzles, some clothes, a custom chest for all her dress-up clothes 
(made by her Uncle Tim), a new bike from Nana and a Hannah Montana outfit. (aside: for some reason, N loves Miley Cyrus. Party in the U.S.A is her new theme song)
After opening our gifts, we had brunch with the San Diego family. From there we tried a nap (#FAIL) and went to the “hot pool” to kill some time. Finally, we ended the day at friends’ house for Christmas dinner and a good old fashioned Tennessee Butt Whoopin’ by the Chargers. 
GO BOLTS!
This morning, I asked N what she enjoyed most about Christmas. In her words, “Doing puzzles with Mommy, watching Polar Express and playing in my new house.” I then asked about her favorite gift. “I told you already Daddy. I love playing in my new house.”
Her favorite gift turns out to be the box her new bed came in. With kids, it’s the little things.
Happy Holidays and a prosperous New Year.
