Christmas 2007 - Celebration #2

This year we are blessed to be spending the Christmas holiday with Zach's family. Though there may be some of you who think of us as insane for packing up our children, gifts and gear just to drive the 6 blocks to Zach's parents house, I submit to you that it is in the name of Christmas spirit and cheer that we commit ourselves to the wonderful memories which will be made throughout the week of designated family time. The memories which make the effort worth the seemingly silly parade.

12.21.07-First we gathered together with the maternal side of Zach's family for dinner and fellowship. We shared a wonderful meal at Zach's parents house then allowed Owen and Clay to entertain us with their antics. O, C & W are the only great-grandchildren on this side of the family so they enjoy their time in the lime light.

12.22.07-Next we enjoyed Christmas services together at Hillcrest church of Christ where Zach's parents attend.

12.23.07-Then we spent time with the paternal side of Zach's family. We shared a meal together at Zach's grandparents home in Hawley, TX. After the meal a few gifts are exchanged and pure chaos ensues. There are usually around 30 people who can come, though that is NOT all of the family members. O, C & W are 3 of 16 great-grandchildren on this side of the family, so they get to share the limelight at these gatherings. Though, I don't think they mind one bit!

12.24.07-Christmas eve wafted in with the sweet smell of homemade waffles and every scrumptious topping you could desire. All of which were prepared in part by Owen and Clay (with help from a few adults, of course). We savored our breakfast and then moved on to enjoy a family tradition, aptly named the "Christmas eve hunt". As the name suggests, we are sent on a scavenger hunt in search of clues which lead us to our Christmas eve gift. Each year there is a different twist. We have been blindfolded, tied together, etc. This year a separate "photo Christmas eve hunt" was designed for Owen and Clay. They truly enjoyed following their pictorial clues to find the hidden Christmas eve gifts awaiting them. And then this evening we had our first annual gingerbread house decorating contest, it was a blast! Each couple got to create a gingerbread masterpiece of their own design and we got so tickled at each other over our mock competitiveness and sense of design secretiveness. Even the kids got in on the action. Owen was particularly proud of his handmade creation. I think you can clearly see who the winner is! Right?!

Here are the competitors:

Larry & MaryKay

David & Ashley
Zach & Meg

This is a picture of the construction aftermath. If only the little elves would come clean up after us...*SIGH* Now that would be a good gift!

Note: we packaged everything up and we are going to save it in the deep freeze for the showdown next year. These houses aren't for consumption, they are purely masterpieces on display.