Christmas Day 2009

Christmas this year was different in many ways. First, we weren't sure what we would be doing for Christmas with Rick being out of work since September. Mom and Dad hall and the Howells really helped to make sure the kiddos had gifts under the tree to open on Christmas morning. We were also able to get TCA from DSS and were able to get the kiddos the gifts they wanted from Santa.

Secondly, Grammie and Poppy were in VA for Christmas with the Lamarres, so we had lasagna for dinner instead of ham.

Thirdly, it was just four of the five kiddos on Christmas morning since Josh and Ashley were with us on Christmas Eve.

Kari and Noah did not wake up until 7:45 AM! We actually slept in a bit this year. The kiddos were very eager to see what Santa left them.....

Finding their gifts from Santa - a new DSi




Opening their stockings




Devin opening her gift - a batman kite - from Q and Alan




Cody opening presents


This Zhu Zhu pet got caught in my hair when Noah put him on my head and turned on play mode! Thanks for sending those, Q and Alan!!


After opening gifts and breakfast, Devin headed to a friend's house and Cody holed himself up in his bedroom playing with his new iPod Touch and XBox game. Kari and Noah went from playing their DSis to watching G-Force a time or two or three. Rick napped while I made some more Santa Whiskers cookies and cleaned up a bit.

Reading Amelia Bedelia


Playing with Noah's gift from Secret Santa - a tractor trailer truck filled with and to hold Matchbox cars


Once Rick was up, I laid down for a bit and Noah joined me. We took a nice long nap and got up just before dinner was ready. Rick baked a lasagna and sliced some Hawaiian sweet rolls.

After dinner, we read Luke 2 and sang Happy Birthday to Jesus. The kiddos love doing this every year!

Jesus' birthday cake - vanilla cake with holiday funfetti sprinkles and green buttercream icing with green, red, white and silver sprinkles on top


Blowing out the candles on Jesus' birthday cake


I am so thankful for everyone who had a part in making this Christmas possible for the kiddos. We are earnestly praying that God supplies the right job for me and Rick in the New Year and that we are able to bless a family next year like we were blessed this Christmas.