Even though I'm talking about Christmas in May, it' about time. We were lucky to have the holiday week off together this year, and especially fortunate to be able to spend it back in Wisconsin with family and friends. The week was full of visitors and visiting! We always have a busy schedule of running out to see friends and family. We stayed the first part of the week at Paul's parents house then shifted around from place to place to join my parents in their condo for a few nights.

We had the traditional VanBoxtel family Christmas on Christmas Eve. It was different this year in my grandfathers absence - his joy was to see all his family members gather together in the pavilion for parties, especially Christmas. We all came together in his honor this year. Even Lovis was able to attend to experience the tradition. My oldest son was excited to see Santa and sit on his lap, he had a blast! My youngest was just a little one, and loved being passed from relative to relative for snuggles and love!

After the party, we went down to my in-laws to open a few gifts. Lovis surprised the boys with such wonderful gifts. Drew got another amazing board game from HABA directly from Germany about the night watchman bear! He loves lights, and just loves the HABA games, it was the perfect fit, and we couldn't find it anywhere in the United Sates, it pays to have connections! So sweet! Lovis then flew to NYC to meet her family for the week while Paul and I and the boys toured around town.

The next stop was the Marsh family Christmas! We had a nice time gathering together, and it was so neat to see Great Grandma June holding new baby Matt! He was such a big baby that he got heavy so quickly! But the snuggles were worth it! We all shared food and family - and it was nice to see everyone in one spot!

While in Wisconsin, I reunited with my High School and College roomies for an afternoon, while the boys got to show off their shirts to Aunt Lyssa "Did we just become best friends? ... YEP!" It is always a treat to invade their house and spend time catching up. I also stopped by Matt and Leeanna's so the boys could destroy their toys and hold big Matt! As were were taking pictures, once again things came full circle. I was named after my mom's sister Jane, who is my cousin Matt's mom, and now my littlest boy shares his name. The world works in wondrous ways - doesn't it?

The week also consisted of Matt's baptism and my Grandpa's funeral. Everything was so full circle in the church, especially given that they share the same birthday. Overall it was a memorable Christmas week with family and friends, one I wish I could capture again!

Christmas in Wisconsin

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