Second Christmas

My family all came out for Christmas and Jackson and Addison were so excited waiting for them. It was also Travis's first time getting to meet Denae. He was pretty funny, still not totally sure what to do with a baby. But he definitely came ready to play with his nieces and nephews. 

Grandma and Grandpa were equally excited to get some Christmas snuggles from not only Denae, but all the grandkids.

While we were getting the rest of dinner ready, Uncle Bubba helped the big kids with some chess. 

Even though it was cold out, we ate outside. Dave turned on the heaters and fire, and actually it was quite nice. The mood was good, food tasty and company even better.

Addie and Parker enjoying their Christmas feast.

Dave, Ed, Bennett, Tara, Travis, Grandpa H, Denae (in the blanket) and Grandma

While the adults got to talk, the kids played and took selfies. For the most part, everyone played well together even though they were all beyond tired. 

Hammock time means hanging out, and sometimes getting out your blankets to get as cozy as you can!

Bedtime went well and most everyone got some sleep. Early the next morning, Jackson got a chance to read to Parker and Bennett. It was a nice, quiet moment while I got to sip my coffee before the whole house got moving.

Denae was passed from hands to hands. Addie asked all the time to hold her, so when she got her chance, she was as content as can be. There were many times she just sat and played with Denae while all the other kiddos were out playing somewhere.

Since everyone was tired on Christmas when they got here, we celebrated a "second Christmas" the day after and exchanged gifts with one another. 

Denae spent a lot of time in Grandpa's arms. Both were happy and content. Those smiles say it all!

While craziness was going on in one room, Jackson went my bedroom to work on his Minecraft Lego Village. He completed it! It is quite the feat. We love the Minecraft legos because of all the pieces and intricacies that are involved in putting them together. Although they never take as long as I think they are going to.

My mom had one last gift for my dad later in the afternoon. It was a surprise to him because he is retired now!!! As the story goes, there was a fabric that they used to refurbish many banks over the years. Apparently this fabric became overused and everyone tired of it. As people retired, they gave them a tie from the material. Well, mom had a little material left and made dad a tie and surprised him. He put it on proudly and is ready to embrace all that retirement has to offer!