Christmas Cheer

 



Christmas thoughts always turn to family and the

joy of simply spending time with each other.

We don't even need any activities;

it's enough to just be together.

That being said,

we did a few things while we were together.

Bowling

 Cookie Decorating

 

 

 

 

Ethan's cookies went into a special container

since he was prone to licking his fingers, licking the cookie,

or nibbling on the decorations before they got on the cookie.

 

 Mexican Food

 

 

 

Croquet

 

 

Goodies

 

Presents

 

Some were more difficult to open thanks to the

diligent efforts of their cousins.

 

Kitchen wall redo

 

Roaring around town in Grandpa's vintage pickup.

 

A brass elephant showed up at the white elephant gift exchange.

It was big enough for a two year old to sit on.

 

Looking spiffy for family pictures.

 

This is my favorite picture of the week:

Ethan was admiring Uncle Rudy's paint job and

considered himself to be the "helper."

These two simply enjoy being together.

 

 

 

 

Dashing Through December

 

 

It finally felt like winter with cold crisp days and nights.

{photo by Nathan}

 

Rudy hooked up the electrical for the new kitchen lights that were installed

while the roof was off in the fall.

 

 

The living room ceiling was completely repaired.

Of course it took longer than normal because it took so

long for the mud to dry.

 

Daisy learned some tricks.

 

We did a little decorating.

 

I was sad to find my favorite lighted Christmas house broken

beyond repair.  It was a gift from a friend many years ago.

Thankfully, I located another one via eBay and

I should have it within a few days.

 

The wrapping station was well used.

Before Christmas I was already tired of the mess in my room.

 

We attended a concert.

It was one of the few "celebrations" we allow ourselves to attend.

Sometimes emotions run high in stressful months and it's best if we keep

things low-key for our youngest.

 

Bethany and I volunteered at a food and toy give-away.

 

The older kids were happy to receive tickets to a favorite performer.

Unfortunately, they have to wait until May for the concert.

 

Then we were off to southern CA for a few days with the family.

What a whirl-wind December tends to be yet it is such a fun time

of friends, family and fellowship.