We finally got our tree lit and decorated this week! It has been up since last week but, because we didn’t put up a tree last year, we only had one measly string of lights. Hailey and I hit the Christmas sale at Michael’s on Monday and we now have enough lights for our 6″ tree, plus a tree skirt and a cute bow tree-topper. Mark is pretty busy getting ready for finals, but I had a great time listening to Christmas tunes while I put up lights and ornaments. It was a little tricky figuring out which ones to put in Hailey’s reach until I stumbled upon a little set of felt nativity ornaments that my mom gave me a few years ago. They are perfect for the bottom of the tree! Hailey loves taking them (especially the sheep and the donkey) off to play with during the day and it’s fun to help her hang them back on the tree when she’s done playing.

Hailey's stuffed animals have taken over for now, but soon we hope to have lots of gifts under our tree.

Our apartment is festive inside and out with the latest addition to our Christmas decor–a fresh pine wreath! Our ward has a wonderful tradition of putting on a wreath-making activity for the Relief Society every year. The evening always begins with a spiritual program, and I got to participate in several songs this year–accompanying two pieces on the piano and singing alto as part of a small group arrangement. Following the program there is always a delicious dinner (soup, salad and rolls) and each sister can purchase materials to make a fresh Christmas wreath. It was my first time making a real wreath and I had a great time. Although I must admit that chatting with my friends was more fun than actually putting the wreath together.

First-timers working on our wreaths.

Kristen & Camille show off our finished wreaths.