Christmas Eve 2011

Today was a pretty good Christmas Eve with the Childen (other then Great Grandpa having 2 strokes). We started the morning with Grandma's Christmas bread and followed closely with giving them there Christmas Even gift - a big climber. At first, they were not interested at all in the new toy, but the ones that had been on the deck for the summer. Finally after about 10 minutes they indulged in the new climbing toy and had a little fun with it.

We then headed down to visit Great Grandma and Grandpa and deliver some cookies and their gifts. Great Grandma looked cute in her festive shirt and was sitting near the tree with friends. Everything seemed calm except Grandpa wasn't there. I knew something was up and was right. But we stayed with Grandma for about 15 minutes and helped her enjoy opening her present and watching the kids dance.

After a long visit with Great Grandpa where Gramma took over, we headed home for lunch and a little Gingerbread house decorating. (Daddy took on the project of making it structurally sound this time and it went very well.) Ellie was quite excited when she saw how good it looked. She let out a cheer that went something like, "Isn't Daddy so good at putting the Ginger houses together." (as she put her arms up in the air and smiled greatly). They did do a fabulous house. Ellie even let me do a little decorating as well. Meanwhile, Grampa and Max played in the kitchen.

After naps we rushed off for a drive thru dinner and church. We ended up going to the old church since we couldn't get everyone fed in time for the children's service where we've been going. They kids did okay in church, all things considered.

After church we had some cookies and Ellie made a plate for Santa. We enjoy our CHristmas cookies very much. Next was cleaning: I had successfully convinced Ellie that Santa won't come into the house if it's messy. So when we arrived home Ellie decided to clean the house with vigor. She was so determined to get everything put away that when Max decided to play now and again, she nearly had a fit. I wish I could pull that trick once a week at least. But the play room / living room does look clean. We had a little play in the living room and some photos.

The kids were having fun and a little riled up, but they settled in nicely. They had a story with Grampa, one with Daddy and some songs with Mommy. They are clearly asleep and I'm about to head there. It was a great day becuase I had all the wrapping done and much of tomorrow's cooking done in advance. I'm thankful for that. I hope to enjoy a great day with the kids (and that Grandpa is home.) Merry Christmas!