As I sat in church this evening for Christmas Eve candlelight service I realized how truly blessed I am. We got there early to get a good seat, and found the perfect one right next to the fire burning in the fireplace. Holding my 11 week old I moved from position to position to attempt to keep her noises at a minimum. Bounce the baby. Rock the baby. Show the baby the flicker from the fireplace. Plug the baby. Shsh the baby. Shift positions. Bounce the baby. Rock the baby. Walk out into the lobby. Plug the baby. Walk back in. Grab a faux-candle. Smell baby poop. Hand back over the faux-candle. Walk back out.

Makena sat with her daddy and Keegan slept peacefully. Lulled to sleep by the Christmas lullabies in my brother’s lap. The service ended with the congregation singing Silent Night. It took me back to when Makena was a newborn, only a couple of days home from the hospital. She had an extended stay in the NICU. I remember, just like yesterday, holding my first born. Holding her as tight as I possibly could. Singing the same very song to her, home with our new family of three.

Right now we are home, tracking Santa online. He’s in Puerto Rico so it’s about time to hurry the kids along to bed. He’ll be here shortly. Here is a photo, taken only moments ago. Makena precariously holding Chloe, while I’m holding my breath. Keegan, not wanting to take a picture but rather wanting some juice. I love these moments. The frustration from a boy who is tired of his mama taking his picture. The joy of a big sister to have a little one to dress just alike. And the new baby, who we are just beginning to know.

Friends, may you treasure every moment of the season and hold these memories close to your heart. From our family to yours we hope you have a very Merry Christmas.