Christmas Eve

On Christmas Eve, we hosted Joel's family for our annual Christmas gathering. Joel's mom and dad pretty much always host, so it was nice to give them a break from hosting and let them be guests. Joel and I host a lot of dinners and parties, but this was our first time hosting a holiday dinner. It turned out pretty well, I think. We served beef brisket, scalloped potatoes, spinach salad, butternut apple soup, roasted veggies, rolls, ginger cookies, chocolate chip cookies, cinnamon roasted chick peas, and a cheese, sausage, cracker, grape platter. Joel's mom also brought pork roast and broccoli salad, and his aunt brought a gingerbread trifle for dessert. We had a spread and no one went hungry!! I got a picture of the table, but none of the food...go figure.

The best part of the day was spending time together. I love to see the cousins together because they don't get to spend all that much time together. Joel's brother's family lives on the west side of the state. Though they do come home often, visits always seem too short.

Presents!  Oh my goodness...there were so many presents!  Graham got a new bike, board games, a new video game system, clothes, a new radio, a blanket, an overnight bag, and more.  Macy received lots of clothes, a gorgeous collection of Christmas ornaments, lots of toys, a blanket, and more.  A family gift is that in a couple months we're spending a weekend at a hotel with an indoor waterpark with Joel's family.  What a fun winter break! 

After presents, we enjoyed dessert, then everyone left. 

Our family had our book exchange, and then little ones had to get in bed so Santa could come.

And visions of sugar plums danced in their heads...

One more post on Christmas: Christmas Day.  :)