Only the Beginning

This weekend we traveled ... a lot ... all for the sake of Christmas!

It was time for our yearly Christmas trip to Roanoke, Virginia ... and then down to Chilhowie, Virginia to visit family and celebrate our favorite holiday.  Although I know he still won't really "remember" this year's Christmas festivities, it is so much fun to watch Jackson get excited about opening gifts and seeing decorations all around him.

After spending Thursday in Roanoke, we left early Friday morning for the trek down to Chilhowie to visit Justin's sweet, sweet Mammaw and his dad.  Mammaw fixed her famous sausage balls, rolls, and pickles as part of our Christmas luncheon.  We exchanged gifts and just enjoyed the quiet of the "simple life" in the country and one another.

Mammaw posing with her famous (like ... literally) homemade rolls.

We had planned to celebrate Christmas with Justin's mom and sister (and her family) on Saturday night, but on Saturday morning, Justin surprised me with an a.m.a.z.i.n.g early Christmas present!

A NEW MINIVAN!!!

Naturally, he scored major brownie points for this spectacular gift.  Seriously ... how can you top that?  I have been just giddy the last two days whenever I get ready to drive it ... who would have thought a girl who once drove a 1970 Chevrolet Nova would be so thrilled with a total "mommy ride"?  But I am!

The on Saturday night, we enjoyed an awesome dinner prepared by Justin's mom and sister, Marney and opened boo coos of presents.  It was so much fun!  I have to say ... Justin's family goes "all out" for the Christmas holiday!

Jax scored a Harley Davidson!

After dinner, our gift exchange, dessert, and a movie ... it was time to turn in ... late!

But not before saying "Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!"

(sorry ... couldn't resist)

And to think ... this is only the beginning!