Christmas Memories.....

Last Christmas I didn't take a single picture, and this year well....I didn't do much better. I got a few pictures, but nothing to write home about. Things just get busy and I forget to pull out the old camera. This doesn't mean it wasn't special or that we didn't create memories...we certainly did! I will mention a few of my personal highlights:

*My Dad graciously took Matt, my Sister, my brother-in-law and I out for a very fancy (children free) dinner the night we arrived in Portland. We have made it a yearly tradition to go out to the same restaurant he used to take my Mom for their anniversary. We had a great time laughing and sharing! This year my Sister and I even got our hair done for the occasion (what a treat)!!! Thanks Dad!

*On Christmas morning we all gathered at my Dad's house and had a yummy breakfast together, followed by opening gifts. Ten kids plus five adults made it cozy, warm, and memorable! My kids love and look up to their Opa, Auntie & Uncle, and special cousins. We are truly blessed and thank Jesus for allowing us to all be together this Christmas.

*My Sister and I spent quality time together chatting at Starbucks, then shopping the day after Christmas (in our new matching slipper shoes...I might add). This is one of our favorite things to do together!

There is more to share, but I will stop and present a few pictures...

Asha and her special cousin Christmas morning (in their new matching dresses from Opa).

Everyone around Opa's Christmas tree eagerly awaiting to open presents.

Aaahhh....the men got matching sweaters (from me). Too cute, guys!

The girls and I stayed a few extra days to celebrate my Mom's birthday (she would have been 69 on December 28th). We went up to her grave site and had time to remember her, pray, and share tears. We then took the train home. We had a blast playing cards most of the way (our favorites - Uno and War).

Now to the New Year!