Christmas Family Functions

A few days before Christmas my sisters and I got together for our annual sister party. This year we decided to do a craft as well as exchange hand made or thoughtful gifts. My niece is becoming all grown up so she was initiated into the tradition as well.  We ate a fancy lunch first.  Laurel always sets such a beautiful table when she hosts.  Nice dishes, candles, sparkling cider, etc.  It is such a nice quiet break from the hustle and bustle of the season and the kids.  We made some pretty wreaths for our doors as we laughed and enjoyed one another:3  
Everyone was so excited to share their gifts. Probably more so than opening the other gifts.  Mom(via a package and skype) gave personalized recipe books, Hanna knitted hats, Cami gave pampering kits, Laurel gave framed subway art with all the holidays to swap out, Beth gave mounted burlap monograms and I gave chevron skirts with matching bubble necklaces.



Another favorite Christmas pastime with my family is the Arave sing a long.  There were cousins, aunts and uncles all with beautiful voices to share. Have I ever mentioned how much musical talent there is in my family? 







Another day we had a Dickinson play date with all the non school age grand kids that were in town.  Cousin Power!