One word describes our Christmas- Fun. From the endless variety of mocktail and specialty coffees Sugarwings made, to the games and dances we did, to the parties and plays we attended.
We had laughter, silliness, and togetherness.
Plus kazoos.
After the huge bathroom remodel and foundation catastrophe, I was behind in my work. When you’re in retail, the last quarter of the year takes over your world, and I had taken a huge break from the stuff I needed to do. It took some energy to ramp up my inventory and be ready for the rush.
So as Christmas neared, I still hadn’t started my shopping. Plus, I’d just spent an unplanned chunk of cash on the home repairs. 
My solution? Presents under the tree for only the two teens, games with prizes for everyone else. Prizes were gift cards, cash and socks.
Soooo many socks.
An exception was made for the dogs, it breaks their hearts to see gifts unwrapped and not get one of their own.
One year, they did not receive anything to open and they were so sad, I promised to never leave them out again.
So of course, they each got a little something just for them.
Everyone else had to win a gift, but I had plenty to make sure all got a couple. Most games were of the red cup variety, seen on tic tok. This reindeer game was a little different, and kinda hard.
The dogs found these antlers in the woods, and Sugarwings wrapped them in lights. Then we used glow stick bracelets as rings, turned off all the lights and started a ring toss.
But the highlight of the night was our dances!
We paired off and made up interpretive dances to our favorite holiday songs.
I got to be Rudolf and Rich played both Santa and Prancer. He was pretty good. And we did it with a straight face, a major accomplishment.
I might have just stumbled upon the best way for us to do Christmas. Experiences, not gifts. Except for missing my boys, it was about the best holiday I’ve had.