Christmas 2008

Wow...it's been a while since I've blogged. I've got some catching up to do :) First of all, I've got a short clip from Josh's 5th grade program, which was during the week before Christmas. He is in the back, looking really excited about singing (NOT). Unfortunately, this turned out a little dark because the auditorium wasn't well lighted. Or maybe it's my camera. Jordan also had a band concert, and did so well playing his trumpet. The boys are both so talented! Of course, I'm probably a little biased.

The next fun activity we did together was to go to the Creation Museum. There was a live nativity, which got moved inside for the evening, since it was only 2 degrees outside (not counting the wind chill). We did go outside for a quick look at the lights, but it was a really quick walk. The nativity was called "Road to Bethlehem" and had shepherds, Roman centurians, markets where you could buy food or souvineers, animals, and the manger scene. It was so well done, and the kids had a great time, although I think Jenna might be allergic to donklets.

This next pic is for Frost, Stacia, and Ruth. It's "Ethan the Centurian" alias brother-in-law/brother. He made all the Roman spears, which really looked authentic. Ethan scowled alot and pretended to attack us. LOL. We had to pay a denarius to pass. The kids loved eating veggie/rice soup and gyros in the cafeteria area. I think this will make a good tradition to do every year.

I guess the next thing I should write about is Christmas Eve. We went over to Aunt Stac's house and spent the evening with Rich's family. We had a wonderful dinner. Then almost everyone went for a ride to see Christmas lights (in a several car caravan)! When they all got back, we opened gifts together. It was pretty much non-stop eating, but I really tried to be good.

Christmas Day was spent at our house. Rich's family, Mom and Dad, and Holly came over. We had egg casseroles for breakfast, soup and sandwiches for lunch, and then assorted snacks. I saved some Troyer Trail bologna and swiss cheese from our Holmes County trip in August, which we all enjoyed. Then it was time for more gifts to open. We all missed Jeff and John, but got to talk via the phone in the afternoon. We also talked with Joe a little too. He actually had to work.

With the economy being bad for the past several months, Rich and I tried to spend less money for Christmas. We spent mostly cash, which cuts down on the credit card bills. I think it's really hard to keep track on spending when we charge gifts. I also bought several smaller gifts for the kids, so they'd have plenty to open and play with. Josh told me that his favorite part of Christmas is family, not presents. I'm so glad, because this is what I've been trying to teach the kids. I was also happy to see that they bought small gifts for each other at school. This picture is of the girls and their baby dolls before bed on Christmas Eve. I bought jammies for them that were on sale and so amazingly cheap! They were so excited to match their dolls. Emma lost another front tooth and looks so cute when she smiles.

Holly was a little disappointed on Christmas Day, because the kids wanted to play wii so much, but then they got her involved. It was hilarious!! She "unleashed the force" on the kids. Today the girls are playing the Outdoor Adventure game. They've been playing for almost an hour, and it's wearing me out to just watch. I played last night, and actually did pretty well at the kayaking, jump roping, and the other games we tried. Maybe this counts as exercise. It should. LOL.

I'm so thankful for our family. I know I really loved making others happy at Christmas. It's funny how that makes me feel so good. Sharing kindness is a great gift to give!! I received alot of that this Christmas too!