Ernie came back

In years past, Ernie has brought the kids a little treat each day- a small gift, a Christmas themed snack, etc. Not only does this get pricey, but I found the kids were expecting it each morning and instead of having a heart of gratitude, they would show entitlement some mornings. 

So this year I made up these "tasks" for them to do- to serve others and bring them closer to each other-

They were a hit! They didn't complain, and it was heart warming to see them working together so well!

Macy falls for the commercials around Christmas that are all lovely dovey put out by jewelry stores, car companies, Starbucks and Target! We talked a lot about consumerism this Christmas season- and how buying a latte and having a family that wears matching pajamas does NOT make you happier in fact. 

But she is 9....

As much as she wanted the whole family to wake up on Christmas morning in matching pajamas- I just didn't think it was a wise use of our money this year. (I hate seeing Christmas pajamas wore after Christmas... so I didn't want to spend $50 on pajamas for 24 hours...) 

She was delighted when Ernie left she and Tate matching pajamas though- and it was just enough. They got them Dec 1- so they were able to wear them all month long and to many Christmas events too! Win win.

Brian did this-

The tiny carrot nose cracked me up-

 New house, new places for Ernie!

See him here on the trayed ceiling?

This one was my favorite because of the "Trees for Sale" the yellow snow (did Ernie pee himself?) and the same snowman now has a scarf and candy hat!

Every year we write what we hope for Christmas on this board-

 Poor Ernie wrote for Blitzen to be nice to me. Is Ernie being bullied?

 So wrong-

But so funny!

Another year down- we did it! Every single night. Who knows how many more years we have for Macy to still believe (she's actually a little scared of Ernie and his magic) so we will embrace it and find the childhood joy while we still can...