An afternoon with family...

Christmas tradition is to always eat first, clean up and then open presents. It was started with Grandma Krempa, how many ever years ago and we continue to this day. Dad, Julie and Bro all arrived around 1 pm. The keilbasa, pierogies, ham and green beans were already cooking. Of course, the keilbasa was nothing like Uncle Harry's homemade keilbasa back in the day, but Lee Williams House of Meats always does a great job. Since John and Barb moved away, Christmas is the holiday that we always have lots of leftovers! B.W. always gives Rob a huge holiday ham. This year we didn't even put a dent in it during the meal. So all of us had care packages that should last at least a week. The keilbasa however was pretty much gone! And there were for sure no more pierogies! Not now that my little man likes them and eats them.

Christmas was perhaps a little different for Bro this year. This was his first "adult" Christmas. He turned 18 in September and Grandma been around (his great grandma) he would have probably gotten some sweaters at the very most it would have been clothes. However, we don't stick that rule. And truth is, Grandma didn't so much either. :) But he did get some gift cards and some electronics stuff.

The little ones got, not tons of stuff, but the stuff that they really wanted! More Cars for Rowan, and heavy equipment and fire trucks. Nadine, princesses, of course! And Jourdyn, webkinz and clothes and other tweenie stuff!

For the past couple of years, dad has been buying Rob Ohio State stuff. This is funny, since dad is a Michigan fan. Rob says he must be a closet Buckeye fan...he needs to buy the stuff but has to have the excuse of giving it to Rob! Of course, Rob appreciates it and is always looking for an opportunity for a wisecrack!

Jules and I got some gas cards, candles, and other little stuff! She gave me a little plaque that says "This is the day that the Lord has made...Don't mess it up!" Isn't that cute???

My brother, John always sends back gift cards for the kids. It's too expensive to send gifts. Well, dad and I took them and went shopping yesterday. Uncle John and Aunt Barb got Rowan a remote control bobcat, Nadine a crayola art set and carrying case, and Jourdyn a Littlest Pet shop game and a Battleship game! Thanks!!!

I have to say that my family is so blessed! God has given us not only the gift of his Son, Jesus Christ, but he has also blessed us with fabulous people to call our family and friends!

After all the gift opening was done - we broke out some games. First, a little Disney Pictionary with the whole family! and then some Scene it! (Julie won - of course! She's the movie guru!!!) The kids were dead-tired again! And were both asleep by 7:30.

Thank you to everyone who blessed my family with gifts this year. It is so appreciate! And thank you to all of you for just being our dearest friends and family - that's the best gift! Merry Christmas to each and everyone of you! I love you all! And I am so blessed to have each of you in my life!

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