Beeler Christmas

We did Christmas with the Beelers on New Year's Eve.

As a bonus, we got to see our Kansas family the day before we did Christmas so we got two days in a row of catching up with them, for which we are so grateful.

The weather was favorable for our drive to MO which made for clear roads for which we are always grateful.

We had a yummy brunch and then opened gifts.

And then it was time for games, snacks, and visiting, and then an afternoon meal...

reflex game...

and plumbing...

Natalee captured a sunset pic...

A few pictures before it was time for our late night drive back to Iowa...

A couple of outlaws...

Bonus pics....Sara had Mike take the medals off his letterman jacket to have it cleaned and we realized I never actually wore it in high school because he was graduated when we got together, so of course I had to try it on...

fit perfectly...

It was a beautiful day spent with people we love.

Christmas at Home

We had a beautiful Christmas at home on the 26th.  We'd stayed late having fun at Grandma and Papa Tallman's on Christmas day so Santa had to work into the early morning hours. I think I heard him head back up the chimney at about 1:45 a.m.

Shockingly the younger children didn't sleep in (wink) and Mike and I reminded ourselves what a privilege it is to be awakened by bare little feet on the hardwood floors pattering down the hallway.

The sweetest gift from my Mia.

We did stockings and then had breakfast.

After a couple of kids rested a bit more we opened gifts.

But first, the kids tried to decode mom's gift labeling system.

Always a good time (for mom, at least).

Maid Marion (Robin Hood)

A new smart watch for Mia

Christy Miller books were high on Natalee's wants this year.

After gift opening there were new toys to play with, Legos to build, books to read, and fun to be had.

Mike smoked a delicious pork loin for our afternoon meal and we spent the day enjoying each others' company.

both boys had Lego sets with light kits to add to them

Natalee made a reading nest to spend some of her afternoon time.

And there were new games to play...

I am so thankful for time.  What a gift.