Christmas 2011

This Christmas was so fun...I think as the boys are getting older it will only get more fun as their excitement and anticipation grows. Isaac woke up a little early because he couldn't find his stuffed animal, when Carl went in to help him find it the first thing he asked was, "Is Santa here yet?" He went back to sleep for a little bit, but was up about 45 minutes before Luke. He was so excited, but very patient as we waited for Luke. Carl made us yummy Rudolph pancakes, so we ate a nice breakfast together while waiting. Once Luke got up there was no keeping Isaac back. So we gave them each their stockings and the present opening started! We gave them a Thomas the train toy which was out and ready to be played with, Luke was so excited! He played with that for a while and even got mad at us when we tried to give him a present to open. My boy loves his trains! Isaac couldn't get enough of the presents, he loved opening them, giving them to who they were for, and seeing what fun surprise waited inside. It was the first year he really got into opening presents. The boys got some fun gifts and had a great time playing with them all morning.

After an unsuccessful nap time we headed over to Oma and Opa's house for the den Dulk Christmas. It was so fun to see the excitement between all the kids as they gave out their presents and helped each other open all the gifts. After the presents they all played so well together, and really had a great time! Oma prepared a yummy dinner for us, which we all enjoyed eating and being together.

Monday we headed over to Emmy and Gumby's house for the Griffin Christmas, and what fun it was! The boys don't get to see their cousins on that side of the family as often, so they enjoyed getting to play and visit with them. Luke and Mariah are only a few weeks apart in age, so they have a good time together. Emmy prepared a great lunch for us which we all enjoyed before the fun began. After lunch, Gumby read the story of Jesus' birth, and we talked about the real reason we celebrate Christmas. The kids were all blessed with many fun things...I love seeing them all play together.

Christmas can be a hectic time as we rush around, but we really tried to keep our focus on Christ and His birth. I think Isaac really gained a good understanding of Jesus and his birth this year, I pray that as the years go on we continue to focus on Him and that the boys continue to learn more about Him and His life.