Christmas 2008

We had a wonderful holiday, full of fun and family. :)  It didn't feel at all like Christmas, very hot and humid.  Ds4 even asked one day if it was summer again lol.  Hard to explain winter in Florida to a 4yo.

Christmas Eve is traditionally spent with dh's family.  His father is the ranger at the Boy Scout Camp and we gather in the dining hall for our little party.  Even my parents come along for the fun.  It's a large family, so we draw names for the kiddo's gifts, and the adults play "dirty santa."  Poor ds1 had to work and could not attend this year, but most everyone else was there.

This year ds3 got to partake in the pre-party festivities, and spent the night in the hall with one of dh's siblings, her dh and 3 boys.  They found and decorated the tree and helped set up the tables and chairs.

Even though it was almost 80 degrees, we still had a fire in the fireplace.  Tradition, 'ya know.

  Here are some of the kiddos taking in the view at the lake.

Once they hear the bell announcing gift time, they are off and running lol!

Ds2 and ds3 opening their gifts.

After opening our gifts at home, we spend Christmas day with my family at my parents' home.  This year I spent more time just enjoying the festivities and less time taking pics so not much to share here.  But I took a few pics of ds4 today, enjoying some of his presents.

Playing Chutes and Ladders, and trying on all his pirate gear. :)  If you look closely in the background, you'll see the "leg lamp" ds1 gave dh (you know, from A Christmas Story movie!)

All my hard work baking and freezing cookies paid off...

and resulted in this lovely tray of goodies.  There was even more that I couldn't fit lol!  So all in all it was a great holiday for us.  I am soooo ready for the new year. :P