Merry Christmas!

Our family had a great Christmas morning yesterday. Ethan woke up bright and early but he patiently waited for Luke and his Dad to wake up before opening presents. Each present was a new thrill! The first stage was opening our presents at home. Then my family came over and we all made a delicious breakfast! It was a feast to behold. I think my favorite was James' German pancakes and Clay's sausage balls. Then we had the second stage of opening presents. Everyone left for naps and we didn't even bother giving Ethan a nap. He played with all toys and I think he enjoyed having free reign while Luke was asleep. After naps we went over to my parent's home for dinner of Christmas Eve leftovers (yum!) and the third and final phase of present opening. Phew! We also dressed Ellie and Ethan up and read Luke 2 and they acted it out. Luke wanted to be a photographer instead of a shepherd. Go figure.

Thanks to all our family that made it such a great day for everyone! Thanks for all the Christmas cards, email included.

Here's a special poem a friend of mine shared with me.

From Santa with Love
By Michelle Davis

A long time ago in a land far away,
A child was born on a cold winter’s day
He wasn’t the baby you’re thinking about
But another small lad, he stood short and stout
He grew up to be quite a caring old man
He loved little children, everyone in the land
He found the “Good Book” and studied its pages
It was the story of Jesus passed down through the ages
His heart overflowed as he read, could it be?
A love so divine that he died just for me?
A twinkle appeared in his eye on that day
He found a road straight to Heaven and Christ was the way
As Christmas came closer, his heart filled with joy
He’d show God’s people he loved them – every girl, every boy
He made lots of goodies and stocked up his shelves
Yes, Santa was busy and so were his elves
He was filled with such love, that he wanted to share
So he handed out gifts to kids everywhere
Praise be to God, let the Angels sing
For this jolly old man spreads love for the King
As he steps into the chimney, he looks high above
And whispers, “Happy Birthday Dear Jesus, from Santa with Love”