Christmas at the Hardings

We chugged along the highway in torrents of rain as we made our way to Charlotte for Christmas with the Hardings. We snuck into the house at 12:30 to find the tree aglow and the packages nestled beneath it.

In the morning Ben and I woke Kristen up and we went downstairs to begin the festivities.

And, in true tradition, Dad read the Christmas story

Presents were exchanged....

Looking over the wedding album Ben and I made for Mom and Dad

Kristen got Ben and me matching Patagonia pullovers and a beautiful framed black and white picture from the wedding with her prayer for us, that she shared at the reception, written beautifully on the matting.

We got her a wooden recipe box with filled with copies of three generations of famous Harding recipes. And of course, a Real Simple subscription.

I also got a stellar embosser and my favorite scent in the world- Ahava lotions among other goodies.

The family (+ a temporary addition)

So we didn't get a puppy for Christmas, but we got to take care of one before she was given. And maybe we pretended like she was ours...just for a little bit:) Kyle got this "little" St. Bernard for Margaret for Christmas. She made our Christmas morning even more exciting.

Then Pawpaw and Betty came over for Christmas Brunch.

Then we relaxed, went on a walk, and headed to meet up with the rest of the Harding gang for Christmas dinner.


Parting shots...

I want one.....