Christmas Day

When I think back on the Christmas mornings for our family, they really have always been pretty peaceful.  Our girls never wake up too early, usually around 8 am.  Our tradition is that we can each look in our stockings while we wait for everyone to gather and get in position to open presents.  After that we each take turns opening gifts which include gifts from Santa and family all mixed together.  

I don't make my kids get dressed before they open presents or anything like that.  I figure they are wearing brand new pjs why not enjoy wearing them for a little longer.  This year, the girls really didn't even know what they wanted.  Neither of them had any big ticket items on the wish list.  In fact they barely had wish lists, maybe that's why I had such a hard time getting everything ready.

 Paige got some Minecraft plush figures in her stocking which were a major hit.  That girl, along with all her friends and about every other kid her age is OBSESSED with Minecraft.  I read an article once that said it can be an educational game as it teaches kids to build societies and prioritize needs and supplies, etc.  I cling to that in order to convince myself that it's okay :)

Paige got Monster High doll she wanted along with some American Girl books, crafts and clothes.

Ashley got some gift cards and her very own CHI flat iron.  She straightens her almost every day and she has been using my flat iron.  Now with her very own, she doesn't have to come into my bathroom every morning at 5:30am to get ready.  Hey, I think I'm a winner with this one too!!

As a surprise, Dave bought me a paperwhite Kindle which I love and I bought him a new sport coat.

Part of the aftermath
 

After gifts, I made a bacon and egg breakfast and then we lounged around and played with our new things.  The girls had fun playing Hedbanz and Chess.  Dave and I played too and honestly, not sure what I'm supposed to say about this picture:

We also got a very sweet Christmas surprise from Dave's parents Jim and Carolyn.  They sent us a fresh flower arrangement for our Christmas table.  It was such a kind gesture to let us know that they were thinking of us on Christmas day even if we are far apart.  The carnations came in a beautiful red vase, which I love having, and were a welcome addition to our table during Christmas break.

Later, in the evening we went and had dinner at our friend's house, Alan & Julie Thompson.  It included the Thompson family, our family and the Sister Missionaries in our ward.  I didn't get any pictures, which I feel bad about because we had a great time.  We had a delicious ham and potato dinner and then we played a hilarious and rousing game of Apples to Apples.  Speaking of apples, Julie made a delicious apple pie for dessert that had shredded cheddar cheese in the pie crust.  What a great idea and it is very tasty.  I better get the recipe for that one.