Merritt Memories

We woke up and got straight to work! In our home you get to see what Santa brought first.  Aaron got new binoculars for hunting. Grace asked for a chalkboard for her room. It was handmade by Santa! Kate got new softball equipment. Becca asked for a hover board- I may, or may not, have tried to ride it and hurt my bum. Britten wanted to be a ninja like, like on Ninjago. All their wishes came true! Santa delivered! Once we were all ready for the day, then we can eat and open presents. Once presents are opened, we head over to Grandma Lori's for lunch, and to open more presents, of course. This year we were able to do a little service project too. We assembled lunches for less fortunate kids. they take them home on the weekends, so they can have food in their home. We are very fortunate to have all our needs met. It is important to help others in need. ...

This Christmas Eve we had members of my family over for dinner. One of Alissa's girls got really sick though and couldn't make. However, we still had Jeff's family and our niece, Tara and her husband, Juan Carlos over. We ate ham and potatoes, salad, and yummy desserts. We played a few games. one was pass the marshmallow. It's the only picture I got while everyone was over.  After they left, we got ready for a few of our normal traditions. The kids always open pajamas. And, we always do our "Gift for Jesus."   Once everyone was ready for bed, we read the Christmas story of the birth of Jesus. Britten asked Dustin if Santa was here yet. He took him outside to see if he was in the sky. No sign yet. Soon, we were all tucked in and waiting for the jolly man to make his arrival!! Yuletide.

We have been on a countdown over here! Grace has been waiting three years to say goodbye to her braces. Today, she was finally able to. The last month it has been all we heard about. "30 more days, 20 more days, 10 more days, 5 more days. Tomorrow!" We can now all be joyful with her. No more countdown!!