Christmas was magical.

I’m not sure if I’m alone in this thought but sometimes as I’m prepping for Christmas (buying and wrapping presents) I get worried that its not enough. In my head everything is great and then as I lay it out I worry over one thing or another. I wonder if I should buy more to make it a better Christmas (which is the silliest thought ever). I worry that maybe I should buy the popular gift that I know every kid is wanting. My head starts racing.

But when I quiet the worry in my head and stick with my plan – it’s never steered me wrong. Could I buy more – sure. Would my kids be happier if I bought more – no. They might think they would, but if they get too many amazing gifts – the value diminishes.

This year, was just right. They got books to read, games to play, things to wear and things off their wish list and it was just right.

I think this year was the year of expressions – everyone gave such great responses to their gifts and to each others gifts. I heard many times, “This is the best Christmas ever!” Which is exactly what a parent wants to hear after spending time, money and mental energy on the gifts. I’m grateful my kids are still young enough that we get these kind of responses and that they’re still overly excited about the lego set – even though we have a bajillion already. There was excitement all around and I couldn’t have been happier enjoying the moment with them.

The biggest hit – Alexa echo dots (thank you amazon black friday!) Who would’ve thought $20 could bring so much happiness and the ability to ask what the weather is, play their favorite song or play rock, paper, scissor with an inanimate object.

It was a lovely and energy filled morning – exactly the type of moments I want to capture in a bottle and pull off the shelf from time to time just for a little reminder of the good ol’ days.