Team AFTER

Yes, I am definitely a part of Team AFTER...that is, Christmas AFTER Thanksgiving. We don't decorate our tree or house until after turkey day. We just like to celebrate each season to its fullest.

But.......................I also L*O*V*E Christmas in its purest form and can't wait to celebrate it with my loved ones and experience it through the littles' eyes as we rejoice in our Savior's birth. So...................................................................................

The Christmas cards have been ordered and should be arriving on our doorstep any minute now (woohoo!) and although we're way behind on our shopping list, these couple of pictures will tell you what I'm most excited about this Christmas season.

This quote has wrapped itself around my heart and - sorry, Christmas card spoiler alert - has become our theme for the holidays:

Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.
~ Hamilton Wright Mabie

I can't wait to do some Random Acts of Christmas Kindness - check out some great ideas {here}...this is what it's all about!!Photo credit: Katherine Marie Photography

I stumbled upon this fun idea on - where else - pinterest! And I love this little poem so much. It's always a challenge to keep the littles focused on the real meaning of Christmas but still keep the magic and I love how this incorporates both. Find all the info {here} on Michelle's blog, The Picadilly Post. The poem reads:
Dear Santa,
This magic key works just for you. Please open the door and come on through. Thank you for coming to our house tonight. We are celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Thank you Santa for the gifts you bring. Thank you Lord for everything.
Don't you just love that??! I sure do!

Pink, Aqua, Red, and Lime...with a little vintage twist, of course, will be transforming our home this beautiful season. I absolutely LOVE this sweet garland Elizabeth of Creative Breathing made {here}, pattern included. and she also made this adorable gingerbread boy and gumdrops - aren't they the cutest little things ever??! Pattern {here}.

I'm thinking {this} adorable Candy Cane Playdough made by Jean of The Artful Parent is going to make a super fun gift for the littles to share with their school friends...And what about making a Christmas bucket list??! I found this fun one {here} and can't wait to start checking off items!And one last thing...if Noonie doesn't put up her tree this year - no excuses on the traveling - I'm going to serve her {this} Grinch Punch on Christmas Day!No, really, I am part of Team AFTER *wink*