Blending Christmas

The kids are getting older and it's really hard to believe we have an 8 year old little girl and 5 year old boys!  This is the first Christmas that we've TRULY blended my background and Blayne's.  Growing up with my parents and having a younger sister consisted of being proper, playing with dolls and barbies, and only going outside to ride my bike (to a friend's house).  I've never REALLY been camping.  Spending the night in a cabin in the woods or in a nice RV DOESN'T count.  Although, I'm not sure I would have gone into the woods without electricity and a warm shower close by.  Blayne was raised on a farm with limited parental supervision, raising animals and learning to hunt and fish.  As much as I would like to shelter our children, Blayne's upbringing yields so many of life's great lessons...... especially for the boys.  Discipline is a big deal and will continue to be a staple in our home, but this year, our kids can spread their wings!  We all remember The Christmas Story.  The one with the Red Ryder B B Gun and YES, this is THAT year.  When the kids wake up Christmas morning, THAT movie will be playing on the television and the kids will receive their very own Red Ryder B B Guns (only for use on the farm, of course!).  Mackenzie's is PINK!  A gun safety course and one on one supervision is a must (per my request).  I can't wait to see their faces when they unwrap their Red Ryder Guns!  I'm hoping it has all the excitement that the movie portrays.  We hope this is the beginning of some very good memories for our children.  I'm looking forward to spending more time at the farm and camping as a family (yes, I'm willing to try it out!)  Just another step in blending our brood!  Merry Christmas and may all your wishes come true!