It’s been a while!  We’ve been busy, of course, but also sick.  It hit early enough that I was sure we’d be over it by Christmas.  But with our crazy schedules, Greg & I both got quite run down, and Christmas dinner got postponed.  We had a very nice, quiet Christmas Day with our children, and then Boxing Day we had our Christmas dinner with family. 

The gift-giving was much more manageable this year.  With a very limited budget for us, we were unable to buy what we normally would, but the kids were so happy!  They got to open their Christmas Eve pajamas and a new toothbrush, and oh my - who knew pajamas and a toothbrush could induce such excitement?!  Christmas Day was for stockings and the gifts from us.  Boxing Day were the gifts from their grandma and grandpa and an aunt and uncle.  Thursday a neighbor brought them something.  And yesterday we had a package in the mail.  They’ve had so much fun.  I’ve said before I’d like to do the twelve days of Christmas with them, and spread it out, and I think next year that will be the plan. 

Christmas Eve we had our traditional birthday party.  We usually do pasta, either spaghetti or lasagna.  This year was lasagna.  Complete with caesar salad and garlic toast.  We had a black forest cake, and stuck a big white candle in the centre.  We sang Happy Birthday to Jesus.  Cole suggested we open the door and let Jesus blow it out.  Greg had barely stepped out onto the stoop, and puff!  Out it went!  The kids were so excited, and Brett said, Thanks for blowing out your candle, Jesus!  This was to me, the very best part of our days of celebrating.