Christmas Time

For the last several years we have celebrated Christmas with Shaun's side of the family the weekend before Christmas.  Shaun's sister Sarah and her husband have hosted each year and do an amazing job.  This year was no exception.  The table was set to perfection and the food was festive and delicious.

 Tony is a good right-hand man, looking for ways to be of service.

 Sienna and Miss Alayna, who is already on her second Christmas.

Aiden was always close by when Uncle Tony was tending the fire, offering words of advice or a nod of approval.   I guess when your home is heated primarily with a woodstove you can consider yourself an expert. :)

 Yum!

 The kids waited so patiently and were finally able to open their presents.

 Trot did a lot of playing beforehand, so he slept through most of his first Christmas.

Shaun's Nana always sends up a package from Florida and we get to open them together.  Nana and Grandpa John travel extensively and its usually gifts from their adventures.  Last year was India, this year was Scotland.  Knowing that, we were hoping for kilts.  No kilts, but Scottish sweaters instead.  AND, the traditonal Christmas socks.  Its so special to know we are being thought of throughout the year as they are traveling.

Nana and Grandpa John, we missed having you there, but you were definitely with us in spirit.

 (Shaun, Tony, Nathan, Micah)

The girls also got sweaters and cups.

 (Sienna, Sarah, Laryssa, Me)


Avery was anticipating this Christmas gathering and insisted she "had nothing to wear".  Ay, caramba.  I took her to the children's second hand store and she found this gem of a dress within seconds.  It called her name.  She is a fashionista to the max.  While opening presents she added the headband, bracelet and socks to complete the outfit.

Mimi spending some time with Alyana.

 Uncle Nathan has a particularly bouncy knee. (Avery's Scotland sweater).

 Jared played a few tunes for us on his saxaphone.

 A feeble attempt to get the (very mobile, very tired) one-year olds together in their jams.

We are so blessed with family close by, on both sides.  Here's the lineup of Shaun's family.

Shaun's brother, Sienna and Alayna

Brother Nathan, Laryssa

 Sister Sarah, Tony and Jared

 Us!  A rare family photo.

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, 

establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.

Isaiah 9:6,7