Christmas Memories . . .

For the first time in seven years, my family made the 7 hour drive to spend two days in Missouri to see family. We had a great time. It was nice seeing how everyone has grown (all my cousins, that is). We all gathered at my Aunt Joan's . . . I mean 46 people in all. We hung out and had a great meal and a great time visiting and catching up with each other.

This is an awesome picture of me and all my cousins all grown-up with our grandparents (aren't they a cute couple). Several of us are married and three of us have children . . . which means my grandparents have eight great-grandchildren.

The trip was jam packed with family . . . the evening we arrived, we visited with my dad's family. It was nice to see them and we shout out a huge thanks for having us over. Then the next day, we had a small Christmas celebration in my mom and dad's hotel room.

This is my brother and his wife, Matt & T.J. and then my sister, Tiffany, and Cassie our oldest daughter. Everyone was waiting as the presents were being passed out.

This is my dad and our youngest daughter Mackenzie. Of course, my mom is always behind the camera too, so my husband took a picture of her taking pictures as everyone opened their gifts.

After two short days full of excitement we headed home. I think we were all sad to have to go, but we had a great time. It was great to see family after such a long time. Maybe it won't be so long next time before we make it "home" to Missouri.

Family Christmas Celebration . . .

Well, yesterday the whole family was together for our Christmas celebration, I know it's not Christmas yet, but with everyone having different destinations over the next week this was the best time for us all to gather. So the house was so full with people that even though it was frigid outside, we had to open the window to cool the house off. One of the many preparations, at my SIL's request, was a family tradition from many years ago (I haven't seen it it probably 7+ years). It was this huge ball with all kinds of finger foods on it. It took several hours for each thing to be stuck with a toothpick and placed on the ball. I believe my MIL said there were over 500 toothpicks on the ball with food. YUM . . . we all enjoyed the hors d'oeuvres. Jay was busy finding black olives for our twin niece, Brooke, and nephew, Chase.

After we munched, we opened presents, and then enjoyed a great meal. We did enjoy some family time visiting and playing with all the little ones. Our niece and newphew are 19 months old and boy are they busy. We also have an adorable nephew who is only 7 weeks old that is just precious!!

Once the celebration was over everyone headed home.

Under Construction . . .

Under Construction . . . yes, we are excited about this new adventure and sharing our journeys with you, but you'll have to return . . . we will be active by January 1, 2009 if not sooner.