Christmas Morning

Despite the illness, we had a lovely Christmas. The kids congregated in our bedroom about 7:30. Rachel wet the bed, and needed a bath, I needed to feed the baby and we gave ibuprofen to all sick kiddos. Then we had family prayer and told everyone that they could not go down the stairs until Josh did. Joshua would not go down the stairs. He just sat down in the middle and wouldn't budge. Eventually the crowd busted past him and ran to their Santa gifts.

In our house, Santa leaves one or more unwrapped gifts and a filled stocking. Joseph got his request of Stormer XL ( a Lego Hero Factory guy), and absolutely had to put him together right away. So everyone waited for Stormer to be assembled before we got to unwrapping gifts from everyone

Being the oldest child, Ruth got the privilege of handing out the presents. In a family this size, even though we only give a few presents per person, present unwrapping goes slowly. Arwen, didn't make it and was put down for a nap before opening any gifts. Sometimes, Josh was too busy to bother with more presents and just threw a wrapped package back at Ruth. The rest of the kids sat with rapt attention and watched everyone open each of their gifts.

We open presents one at a time. Christmas only comes once a year. We like to extend the wonderful feelings of gluttony, and it is fun to see what everyone gets, their expressions and all.

We had a happy Christmas. I think everyone got what they wanted.  Rachel and Ruth were particularly excited. Ruth got a bunch of new clothes and is excited to go back to school to show off. Anya, was the least enthusiastic, but that was explained with a fever of 103 despite medication.

We spent the rest of the day, laying around reading books, doing puzzles, coloring and playing games. It was a good day despite illness.

Being pushed down the stairs

Rachel asked for 'all Brave' for Christmas

Building Stormer XL

The kids watched each other intently as they each opened presents

5lb Hershey Bar from Aunt Amber

Adam wanted more Skylanders guys for his wii game. I said no way, but my mom and Kate granted that wish.

This is the third year in a row, Anya has asked for horses.

Rachel loves doing hair and make-up. This is from Grandma Pardon.

This was the main thing John wanted, but he also got new shoes, which he was very happy with.

More Skylanders

Trying to read to Josh, who was ready for a nap. He didn't make it through the whole book.