Christmas 2008 Highlights

Our Christmas festivities started as usual with having my family and as a special treat- Ben's parents and sister over for Christmas eve dinner. Everyone had a good time eating, drinking, playing the arcades, pinball machine, playing with the puppy and catching up.

We woke up to snow falling (we already had 10+ inches), which was the perfect way to start off Christmas Day. We headed over to the my family's house for the start of what is a busy day for us. We started off with breakfast (overnight french toast, sausage, and fruit) and then gathered around the Christmas tree for what my little sisters still consider the best part-opening presents. We all took turns opening the bounty of presents from everyone in the family and everyone made out quite well this year and there were even a few surprises in the presents.

After opening presents we headed back home to relax and opening presents with each other and Odin. Being that this was his first Christmas we had fun spoiling him with a Christmas bone and other treats and a couple of new toys. Here are a few pictures from the day.

Odin with his very first stocking full of treats!

I love my iPod and have been wanting the new iPod touch for a long time. Ben is the best present giver ever!

Ben with his new flash--this will come in handy for all of our nighttime photos on vacation

That evening we headed to Ben's grandma's in Auburn to celebrate with his extended family. Both of his aunt and uncles that live here in Washington as well as cousins, parents and siblings were there. Everyone spent the evening catching up, opening presents and of course remembering grandpa Baker who passed away in January of this year. While everyone was a little bittersweet that grandpa Baker is no longer with us we were all glad to know that his spirit is always with us and grams is doing well.

We hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. Best wishes to all!