Random Photo Friday...It's December!

Happy December!!!! The most magical time of year is here, my friends. So curl up with a good book by the twinkling lights of your Christmas tree, light a festive candle when the early darkness comes, pour a cup of hot cocoa and add some whipped cream, or turn off the television and put on some of your favorite Christmas music. Don't let these December days pass without making them special in some small way. These are the days we wait for when March winds blow, and when the July sun shines.

Our family got a head start on the Christmas fun this year. Because Madison and Nicolas were home for Thanksgiving, and will be spending their first Christmas together in Denmark, we added some Christmas cheer to Thanksgiving this year. Here is a look at the past week here in our holiday home.

Zip returned early this year!!!!

He came for Flynn's birthday, and is adding some fun to our days.

He is a fun elf....mainly hanging around smiling.

No elaborate contraptions or tricks for this guy.

The end of November means the beginning of Christmas clothes...

And just how happy does it make me that she loves them as much as I do???

Nicolas and Madison love my French Toast.

I was sure to make it while they were home.

My secret ingredient is something my godfather taught me to add years ago...just a tiny splash of vanilla in the egg mixture. : )

We watched The Miss Universe Pageant on Sunday.

All the finalists were worthy of the crown, and we were happy when Miss South Africa won!

Peyton made these delicious cupcakes for hunting camp last weekend...

And clearly, they did the trick.

Rhett got this four point Monday afternoon.

(Apologies to anyone offended by this photo. Hunting is a way of life here in Pennsylvania.)

I will never ever tire of Fisher Price Little People on the floor of our family room.

I treated myself to a special early Christmas present.

I found these cute, super soft flannel sheets on sale at Plow and Hearth.

Not that I need another reason to snuggle into bed, but fresh new flannel sheets?

Cozy.

Madison and Flynn have a tradition...

And they continued it this year. : )

Tuesday we had a special afternoon tea. 

Peyton made some delicious cookies and

we enjoyed tea, cocoa, and V-8 Splash...that would be Rhett...plus a game of Christmas Trivia.

Such good sports I have, right?

I ran into town early Wednesday morning to get some fresh doughnuts for a quick goodbye breakfast for Madison and Nicolas.

They appreciated them so much!

Doughnuts are very expensive in Denmark. 

Nicolas said they are $36.00 a dozen!!!

Before we knew it, Wednesday afternoon arrived and these two headed back across the ocean.

I am so proud of my Madison for following her dreams and venturing out into the world.

She is a young woman speaking fluent Danish, living and learning in a beautiful new country with amazing people.

I am thankful to Nicolas for caring for my girl. 

And to his wonderful family for welcoming her into their life.

I miss her like crazy, but am beyond happy for the experience she is enjoying.

And Easter will be here before we know it. : )

Have a  cozy December weekend with your people, my friends.

Happy December!

Happy Advent!