Christmas Day 2008

This has been a most memorable and joyous Christmas season for our family. Much more laid back and enjoyable then last year's--that's for sure. Last year we moved 2 days before Christmas and then left for California Christmas night. It was a stressful holiday on many levels and it was so nice to have all those, as the song says, "troubles be miles away." We have much to be grateful for this year.

Christmas Eve we had my sister and her family over for a turkey dinner. Then later in the evening all of Josh's family came over for our Christmas program. We sang songs and of course told the story of the birth of Christ where the kids acted the Nativity scene, a tradition in homes all over. The kids really look forward to it.
We had hot chocolate with fixins, egg nog, and homemade brownie sundaes with crushed candy canes on top. So yummy! The kids also did their annual Christmas gift exchange with their cousins, always so fun for them.
Christmas morning started around 6:30 a.m. The kids came running into our room and were ready to see what Santa had brought. We like to be there when the kids see all the presents for the first time Christmas morning, so we tie up a sheet across the opening of the family room so the kids can't see anything until we take it down and let them charge in. I of course have to have my camera on and ready, fireplace on, Christmas tree lights on, and potty trips done before starting the festivities. Then we pull down the sheet and let the unwrapping begin. The kids got some much needed clothes, games and the game I said we would never own, the Wii. So far it's been really fun. Hope I don't regret it.
It was fun to lounge around the house and play with the kids all afternoon and then later get ready to go to Josh's aunt's house for lunch/dinner. We later came home played some Skip Bo, watched a movie, played a little Wii and tonight we are going to end the evening with watching The Christmas Shoes which a friend is letting me borrow (thanks Marilyn!). This has been a great Christmas! Hope the Spirit of Christmas has brought you and yours a Happy Christmas Day!