A very merry Christmas...

Christmas Eve afternoon, Allen was home since the stock market closed, at noon. Benjamin was so excited that "Daddy" was coming home. So, we baked sugar cookies. Benjamin was the cookie decorator. While the cookies were in the oven, Benjamin worked on a picture for Santa. Georgia-Kate tried to help with the picture...that didn't go over too well. Before bedtime, he filled a plate for Santa and poured him some orange juice. "I think Santa likes orange juice and not milk"...he stated.

We attended our church's Christmas Eve Service. I really enjoyed it. We observed the Lord's Supper and sang Christmas carols. Bro. Scott and Russell did a really nice job with the candlelight service. After church, we headed over to Allen's parents. We enjoyed dinner and spent time opening gifts. Janet cooked a good ham, dressing, hot rolls, ect...Cecil made the mashed potatoes and Janet was really fussing at him because she thought they were too thin. But, the potatoes were really good. I heard him say, from the kitchen..."the kids are really going to like my potatoes"...and he was right!

Christmas morning, we spent time at home before going over to my parents. Benjamin was so happy that Santa drank the orange juice and left presents. He asked Santa for the Break-Down Train (from Thomas) and a guitar. Last minute, he asked Santa for a doll house for Georgia-Kate...all Santa could find was a castle...but he was pleased that Santa remember them.

We enjoyed dinner and more gifts at my parents, Mimi and Papa's. Mimi out did herself, again, this year. She kept saying "I'm cutting back this year, with my buying"....she didn't. However, we won't complain...because Mimi and Papa got us some really really great gifts. One of my favorite parts of Christmas is: Dad buys each of us, a gift....that he shopped for all on his own. I always look forward to opening it. This year, he bought me a really cute "puffy" black hooded vest. We had a great time. While Allen, Dad and the kids took a nap, Tracy, Amanda, Mom and I played scrabble and spades. I lost at scrabble...but did much better at spades...I always like cards better that spelling! After nap time... Benjamin, Hailey, and Georgia-Kate tried out Hailey's new wagon. Todd, my brother, must have pulled them through the house, a dozen times.

We had a busy and fun day. I hope each of you enjoyed Christmas with your loved ones. Happy New Year.