We’re finally getting the sewing cleared away and readying the dining nook for Christmas dinner. (That big bag of oats will shortly become granola for Christmas gifts. )
And putting out some last-minute decorations…
and making our traditional holiday persimmon bundt cake while the boys play with dinosaurs at my feet…
and putting out the last few pieces of the children’s new Nativity on my grandma’s marble-top washstand. 
(As much as I’d love to have a Nativity set like this one or this one, I am really enjoying this budget-friendly set – the children can play with it as much as they wish – and they do! They check each morning to see if a new piece been placed out, and if one of the kids seems to have disappeared, I know he or she will be in the guest bedroom quietly playing at the Nativity.)
and running ribbons through the last batch of drawstring gift bags, so we can start wrapping up presents!
So many other projects and preparations before Christmas Eve!  I am trying to balance the pressure to complete everything with the need to slow down, connect with the kids, read to them, play with them, and enjoy time as a family.  Doing our best to keep the time sacred in the midst of so much activity.
Wishing you comfort and peace at this time of year.
Looks like you have been busy! Have a very Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!!