Christmas Joy

Another Christmas has come and gone.  Like normal, it was a crazy busy time, but also crazy fun. We spent a lot of time with family, although it never seems like enough. It is so easy with everything going on this time of year to let the stress of the season take away the joy. As I was looking back through the pictures I took during our various Christmas activities this year, there are a few that stood out to me because they really capture the joy and love that we were surrounded with this year.

This one doesn't really need explanation. Laughter from the heart is always good for the soul.

Who doesn't want crackers for Christmas?  And when you get crackers for Christmas, why not lay in the floor and eat them whilst everyone around you continues to open gifts?

Giggling baby riding a tortured looking puppy.  Now that's a keeper.

The grandma that never wanted pets because they're dirty and messy letting my new puppy lick her in the face.  And she was laughing the whole time...pure, joy-filled laughter.

This picture just speaks to me of love and contentment. It is a simple moment, and that's what makes it so beautiful.