Christmas Morning

Christ is Born!

Let us Glorify Him!

Christmas morning is such an exciting time. Edward and Tonja get up before the kids and set up the presents around the tree. We can't do it any sooner or the cats will get curious and open everything before we are ready! The plan was to get up about 6 AM but things don't always go according to plan. Edward's schedule was officially thrown off (after having worked nights for 3 days straight) and he couldn't sleep. We got up at midnight and set things up. Edward then had a long prayer and study time and went out for a crispy brisk walk. Tonja woke up at 6 to pray and study. Teresa got up at 8:15 and Ethan and Elayne followed around 8:30.

Then we made hot chocolate and toast - our traditional Christmas morning breakfast - and sang Christmas carols while eating. This is a time where we reflect on how thankful we are for God and His coming humbly as a baby to identify with us, His people - sons and heirs to His throne.

Finally, we open gifts.

We're ready!

We take turns so that each person gets a chance to open something and everyone gets to see what it is. After each "round" we pause so that each person gets a chance to really look at and appreciate the gift. When all are satisfied with the session, we go onto the next round. It takes a better part of the entire day. Following are just a few pictures to show SOME of what was sent to the kids. I didn't take pictures of everything.

Teresa and Elayne each got horses and riders from Grammy and Papa


Much adored by both.

From Grandpa Wendel, Grandma Pat and Samara:
Ethan got Stratego




and the girls got their two favorite movies -
Prince Caspian and Kung Fu Panda

Ethan's favorite gift by far was his Airsoft pistol. He has been asking for it for several years now. We finally decided it would be good for him as long as he had a target to shoot at (which came with the gun). In this picture his exact word are,
"You have GOT to be kidding me!"

He actually didn't believe it was true until he took it out of the box.

Then he could believe it and get excited.


The girls were also excited to get their dollies for their dollhouse. Thank you Grammy and Papa!!

We break for a small lunch, and for dinner we have a meat fondue. After dinner and clean up, we spend time together either reading or playing until bed.