Katie, read this next November!

Lessons learned from this Christmas:

1) Stocking stuffers should be identical.
2) One present under the tree for each boy! The extended family will pad the count considerably. Any more, and you risk again chasing after Alex, begging him to open one more present. Or hugging him when he melts down and wails in a pile of wrapping paper.
3) If Jonathan requests a toy on three separate occasions, that's the one he wants. Let him open that last. He'll sigh "Oh, I'm so happy" and disappear to play with it.
4) It was very, very smart to unbox and assemble all toys before wrapping them. Sure, it made for some squashy packages, but presents that are "ready to play" are priceless. Do that again.
5) Chris has learned to love the Swedish cardamon Christmas bread, so find some time to make it.

In his own words

We got home some of Jonathan's latest classwork, including this book:

"I am thankful for. . . " by JOEE
my cottage,
my tricycle,
my swimsuit,
and my house.