Christmas Day

After a long evening of wrapping, we managed to get up around 7am when the girls came in bouncing up and down.  Santa had finally arrived and they were beside themselves.  Kailei asked for a piano, an ipod touch and Camp Rock 2 DVD and between Santa and us, she got all that she wanted.  Keara asked for a kindle, a new comforter, and an American Girl doll and bed.  Santa wasn't able to provide the kindle this year but she did get a new comforter and lots of American Girl loot.  Grammy actually got her the American Girl doll so Santa didn't have to worry about that one.  Naturally they got some clothes and a few other items and were excited about all they received.  It was fun to watch them open their presents.

As is tradition we traveled over to Grammy and Poppy's for breakfast.  Despite Mom's temporary handicap she seemed determined to cook and served up a delicious breakfast.  The kids gobbled everything up so they could move on to opening more gifts.  Grammy and Poppy spoiled them as usual (and us as well). 

Later we enjoyed a delicious turkey dinner, took naps, played games and had a great time. Thanks Mom and Dad for making Christmas such a special time. 

Christmas Eve

Still don't have presents wrapped which means a late night but enjoyed Christmas Eve with the family.  We went to church at 3:00pm so we could get a seat.  It was doubly important this year since Mom was on crutches.  As usual church was packed but we managed to find a place where we could all sit together. 

After church we went back to my house for some "party food".  I always like this part of the evening.  Everyone looks so nice and we eat fun food.  It is also nice to be reminded that it isn't about the presents but rather a celebration of Jesus' birth and the gifts he has given us. I can't think of a better was to honor him than being with friends and family.

Wildlights

Managed to squeeze in a little fun and go view the lights at the Wildlife Museum.  We've done this for the past few years but I don't whether is was the date or the weather but it was packed with people.  Haven't run into the lines before but will remember it next year.  I was hoping the kids could talk with Santa but the line was way too long.  We went with the Lawrence's and the Wyman's and had a great time despite the lines.

Cookie Day!

While Lynn and I live no more than five minutes from each other, we still struggle to find time to get together.  We both lead busy lives but despite that challenge we both make sure to set aside time for COOKIE DAY!  Neither one of us are great bakers but the laughter we share makes up for it.  Naturally the girls help but we look forward to the day when they do most of the work and we can just sit around and gab.

Archer's Out on the Town

Our annual dinner out with the family was tonight.  We went to Mt. Fugi which is a Japanese restaurant in Parker.  The kids really love it since they cook everything right in front of you.  We missed not having Kevin and gang there but will look forward to next year when he should be here.  Mom was a little gimpy this year as something bit her foot and she was in urgent care shortly before dinner.  She came hopping in with her foot wrapped as she had a pretty bad infection.  We got lots of laughs at her hopping around but hope her foot heals quickly (Tracie and I are worried we might have to cook dinner).  :)

Davison Christmas

Spent the weekend in Walsh celebrating the Davison Christmas.  Hadn't been down there for Christmas in a long time and really enjoyed it.  Phyllis filled us with lots of great food and way too many sweets.  Unfortunately Merle woke up and was very sick.  Ended up with walking pnemonia so we didn't see much of him.  Zeb actually went down on Friday to attend a wedding which was fun since many family members were there.  Mitch came down on Saturday with his crew and we all really had a great time.

I'm learning to play the card game Nertz(?).  I'm terrible at it but it is fun.  The kids loved all their gifts and spending time with the family.  Wish they lived closer so we could see them more. 

Keara's Feis

Keara danced in a feis this past Saturday.  She was very nervous and doesn't normally like to perform but Mom's "encouragement" worked.  She ended up getting a first, a second and a third.  I was so proud and more importantly Keara was happy she did it.  Enjoy her first place dance.