Christmas Day

After all the preparation...it finally arrived. 8 stuffed stockings all in a line...all the gifts under the tree...and a very excited group of children patiently/impatiently waiting for Uncle Troy to return from caring from their dogs so the festivities could begin.

Stockings were torn through...and Atsede was ready to get moving into the 'real' gifts. She was johnny-on-the-spot handing out gifts, youngest to oldest. No time to spare between presents. Both she & Kebrom were so very excited. As were the rest of us!! Kebrom opened his trucks & new shirts, Atsede opened her doll stroller & Barbie dolls. JoyLynn SQUEALED with delight when she read she could get her ears pierced, just like the videos they play on TV. Kyra loved her Husky sweatshirt & t-shirt. Brenna loved her new jewelry box and Geoffrey was thrilled with his laptop.

We took our time, took a break for breakfast...trying to stretch out the day. Uncle Troy got tired of waiting & gave Serena her gifts all in a row.

It was a wonderful day of playing with new things, staying in pj's as long as possible & a wonderful prime rib for dinner. Nana made it, her first attempt at prime rib, and let's just say...she set the bar very high!!

We 'lost' Kebrom at about 7 & found him sound asleep on a bench. He just couldn't stay awake any longer.

It took us many loads to get everything & everyone home. Our house was freezing when we got home & not just because the fire went out. Apparently, our furnace had as well!! It took Paul 24 hours or so of hard work to get the house warm, but he did it & we were so grateful.