Christmas arrived! ~ another look back...

The reason for the season

We talk about Santa Claus and have fun but we are very aware of what Christmas is all about.  We are forever grateful for the ultimate GIFT that came as a baby all those many years ago.

Traditional pjs

The right and left pictures above are the pajamas that the west Portland grands got on Christmas eve.

Krystle braided Danika's and her own hair to create matching hairstyles for Christmas Eve day. She also loved her new soft fuzzy nightie.

New robes :0)

Anabelle and Henry exchanged gifts after getting their new jammies on. Having a new thing to play with for a bit helped to ward off some of the anticipation of the presents in the morning. 

Snuggly and ready for "The Night Before Christmas" and dancing sugarplums.

Both Hayden and Cherise received Gerber products.
Christmas brunch at Elmer's

Harlan called ahead at made a reservation for the 18 of us. The had a lovely private dining room all set up for us. The carpools started arriving and we had a great breakfast.

Fun times making memories ;D

Back at the home front more gifts were exchanged

Courtney & Charlie, Jess & Joylynn and the kids all came over the house to open the presents that were there for them. The cousins enjoyed playing together and running around.  Then that whole gang left for the rest of their Christmas day festivities and it was just 11 of us that sat down for a holiday feast. 

Friends from California

We were treated to a visit from our friend Jenny, her son, and her fiancé, Abe. Jenny and her family spent time with Cherise and hers when they were all in San Diego. It was great to meet Abe and see how much Nicolas has grown.  It's always good to see Jenny too. She's a sweetheart. 

Merry Christmas to all, it was a good night!