Christmas came early for us and we spent last weekend all together with my Hanaike side. Between Mariah being so close to her due date, and Hillary's family spending this year with her inlaws, we decided to get together early. Friday night everyone rolled into town where we had so much fun visiting, dancing, playing games and just hanging out while all the kids ran around in heaven playing with their cousins. The next morning, we started off strong, coming to the house to Christmas morning bags from my parents for each of us, with thoughtful and fun gifts for everyone. with a charcuterie board I'd been wanting to make and share, pastries that Luke brought and so on. After that we got on with the main events. Presents were passed out, just like in years passed and people opened and shared what they got. Bear and Eli were particularly excited with matching trucks they got from my parents, and had to clink them to celebrate, something everyone did after when similar presents were given. The kids also got matching dresses, and all in all it was a blast. From here, the kids went downstairs to play with each other and their new gifts [and set up their interactive polar express train we all rode, complete with a sleeper train-hilarious] while the adults did White Elephant which Mariah suggest. It was all super fun. After a bit of time to relax after a fun filled morning, we went to FDR to play in the gorgeous weather. We had a kickball game, made gigantic bubbles, bumped the volleyball, played tag on the park and so on. It was good to get outside in the sunshine and had something everyone would enjoy. The rest of the night we spent at the house eating Ross's famous chili with rice and cornbread, and having a ugly sweater cookie decorating contest [which Lester, Sam and Andrew judged for us.] All in all it was a perfect weekend. The next day, we all met up at my parents church, and then went back to the house before heading to the beach for some sand and water play, rock climbing and more visiting. It was freezing fun, and the best way to spend the winter season, just like when I was a kid. Aftewards we went home for brisket, coleslaw, rolls and dessert. Auntie Kathy and Jade stopped by and we loved visiting with everyone, ending the night with another set up of the kids on 'Grocery Island.' Honestly, as far as family get togethers go, it was probably one of the best we ever had. All fun, and good food and visiting. Hillary and the kids stayed one more morning, which meant some night we were able to watch our Kdrama and play games with Luke and Mariah before they headed out Monday afternoon. So grateful for all of it. 

-And like I said, this morning was Christmas. Santa came through strong with exactly what the kids wanted, and a note to go along with it. There was tons of presents from and for family, a feast my MIL made, and great visits with Jo and Jess and family. We even got to play the coolest female role model bingo game with them, and it was fun AND educational. Now, I am here watching a movie and enjoying a quiet Christmas night. Life is beautiful, and I'm so glad we have more time here.