Family Christmas

I thought that since this is the first year Grandma and Grandpa have had such a full house, this might actually be the best picture for the weekend.

Mom made all 7 of her grandchildren, and 4 of her "children" stockings this year. She of course was proud she got them done in time, the rest of us were impressed with all of the hard work.

She made Brian's and mine when we were kids, Garren's came the year after we were married, and she had Mariah's and Gracie's done after their births...but still, 6 stockings in a short time is quite impressive. She made one for the new baby too...but since we are remaining stubborn about gender, it clearly isn't finished yet.

The weekend was damp and very cool, but it didn't stop these kids. Gracie loved having her cous-its around to play with, and even Garren got in on the fun. He took them all outside and played football with them for quite a while. I heard all about how Mariah's team won by a step or something. Needless to say it didn't take long until they were adoring their Uncle Garren.

We had yummy food--which I think the kids barely chewed so they could get to presents next. Each child was so exciting to watch as they tore through those stockings filled with goodies from Grandma and Grandpa. I could hardly keep the camera focused on just one squeal of delight!

Gracie of course was completely spoiled and she got a stocking full of girly goodies. Plenty of princess and Tinker Bell paraphernalia that she adores.

Most of the day, when not spent outside or in the throws of new gifts, was spent in the craft room at mom's making all sorts of things with glue and glitter and much more. I was fascinated to see even the older kids loving to make things. Gracie of course could spend all day making crafts--but all of the kids took turns in that room making card after card, picture after picture.

Before Brian and Dawn and all of the kids headed home, they did take time to make Mariah feel extra special. Sunday is her 11th birthday, and so Brian got an ice cream cake and everyone sang. Gracie liked the singing part--but clearly the cake was a bigger hit!

Sunday was just a Grandma, Grandpa and Gracie day. We went to the mall and she rode the train and actually talked to Santa! Well, luckily we had made a letter for Santa, and since she was so shy, he read the letter aloud while Gracie clung to Grandma. She was very excited, and Santa was wonderful to her too. We were able to get a picture, and I videoed the whole thing.

Gracie was devastated when it was time to leave. We usually don't have such short visits, but with her school party Monday, and doctor's appointments and Garren's work, we had to rush things a bit. But, we plan to return next month for a big sister celebration. So, hopefully Grandma, Grandpa and Gracie can all hang on until then.

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