Christmas

We had lots of changes this Christmas.  Justin and Becky decided not to travel back, so it was the first Christmas without them.  And since Marissa and Casey were going to be in KC for his family, and we already live in KC, my parents also came to KC.  So it was the first time we didn't have to drive anywhere on Christmas Day and the first time we got to host it at our house.  Since everything else was changing, we decided to make it the first Christmas we didn't get each other gifts.  Well, the adults anyway.  And Santa cut way back on the kids (although I couldn't get the grandparents to cut way back).  And nobody missed them!  The girls area happy with anything.  Every present seems equally awesome to them whether it is a robotic toy or a bath sponge.

This was a tent for dolls, but she can fit in it.

The biggest present was the wii.  Steve and Hannah are equally excited about video games.  Our house has not been the same since.

The girls started preparing for hosting Christmas right after Thanksgiving.  They came up with an itinerary of games and performances.

I had some games of my own, too.  I wanted to make the day more about fun family time than presents.  And it was definitely a success.  We played "Watch Ya Mouth" for the first time where you put cheek retractors in and try to say silly phrases.  It was a hit!  I laughed so hard I cried.

There was also a saran wrap ball with small presents that was super fun.  And the main event was a Christmas performance by Hannah and Olive.  Hannah wanted me to teach her a few Christmas songs on the piano, so I did.  We got some simple sheet music that could be played with only one hand at a time.  She memorized Jolly Old St. Nick, Jingle Bells, Oh Come All Ye Faithful, and Silent Night.  Olive danced while she played and they both wore Christmas hats that changed with each song.  It was amazing.  And truly one of my favorite Christmases ever.