A Very Merry and Joyous Christmas

All year I've been telling my family that all I want for Christmas this year is for all the family to be together for Christmas. Lisa and Cameron said they were coming for sure. Andrew would be finishing up his schooling in Pittsburgh and he and Lindsay and Riley would be moving to Albuquerque via Utah. Jessica was all for coming home. The only one that we weren't sure of was Mindy and Jeran. Jeran is trying to finish up his Doctorate degree and is at a critical point. (Something about testing tumors in mice or rats.) 

Andrew and Lindsay made a speedy cross country drive, not an easy feat with a one year old, in order to get home before the big snow storm. They arrived on the 15th. It was so fun to have them here for a whole week before Christmas, especially since they will be leaving on the 27th. Riley has the cutest smile that lights up his whole face when he smiles and he makes everyone else smile. He is the happiest  and easiest going little guy and I have loved watching and playing with him.

Lisa and Cameron and the boys are living in Indiana. They flew in on the 18th. That livened up the house considerably and ramped up the excitement of Christmas even higher. Two-and-a-half year old Benjamin is beginning to get the idea of Santa so that was fun. Five-month-old Riley is such a happy and cuddly guy and everyone has enjoyed holding him. Cameron was a great help in helping get out old washer and dryer moved out and the new ones in place and getting the flat tire on Alyna's car repaired. It was fun to have Lisa's help with all the wrapping and cooking. 

Jessica flew in from Atlanta on the 22nd. She got to meet baby Caleb and they really took a liking to each other. 

On Monday, Christmas eve day, Dennis went to finish up some of his errands and I took all the kids and we went to finish up our shopping. While we were out, Mindy called to see what we were doing. I felt so sad for her, not being able to be here with the family this Christmas. When we arrived home we found a great surprise! Mindy and Jeran were waiting for us. I screamed and cried and laughed and just hugged them. What a great Christmas!

So, even though we've had to share some of the kids with the in-laws, it's been a most wonderful Christmas.