Christmas Morning

Christmas morning began at 6 a.m. with Raisa calling "I'm awake!" This was after a bedtime of approximately 12:30 a.m. I had really hoped for at least another hour of sleep...... but it was not to be. I went upstairs to get her and brought her downstairs with Scott and Owen and I, hoping to give Mom, Dad and Ross a bit more sleep time. Owen was up by 6:45 and we all went upstairs about 10 minutes later. We made the kids close their eyes as they walked through the family room so that they could not see what Santa had brought. Mom and Dad were already awake, making coffee, warming pastries and preparing the turkey for the oven. Owen was sent into wake up Uncle Ross when the torture had gone on too long....... we then went to see what Santa had brought! We all received and exchanged wonderful and thoughtful presents. The best line of the day was Owen saying "How did he know?" referring to Santa's amazing ability to bring the gifts that were most desired. Christmas is really so much more exciting with children. Ross even said, "I don't remember that Christmas was boring six years ago...... but what did we do?"

We had a yummy Christmas dinner of turkey, gravy, scalloped potatoes, corn casserole, homemade rolls, dressing green salad and szechuan green beans. Dessert was pumpkin pie and meringues filled with lemon or chocolate. Delish!

It was a memorable Christmas filled with great company, thoughtful gifts, and YUMMO food. We were sad that Craig and Becky and Anna were so far away, but grateful that they are safe and together. I can hardly believe that another Christmas is over. Mom and I were talking about how quickly the day seems to go. I think we need to remember to enjoy the preparations throughout the month or so before as well as the day of. It is all so fun and exciting!