Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas to everyone! I love this time of year - it's my favorite. I'm so thankful that we can celebrate Jesus coming to earth as a baby and remember why He came. Christmas always makes me think of family and traditions! So many wonderful Christmases have been spent with my family and life-long friends...and I'm grateful for those memories. Last year was particularly special as my entire family was together and we had a great time. Even though I'm not with my family this year (I miss them), I was able to talk to all of them and share my Christmas with them.

Another reason I like Christmas so much is because I enjoy celebrating traditions! There are so many wonderful traditions this time of year and each one makes me happy for a different reason. Some are old traditions and some are new - but they all add up to a wonderful Christmas season. Here are a few of my favorite traditions and moments from Christmas 2011!

Candlelight Christmas Eve Service - starting the celebration with carols and the Christmas story.

Chinese food on Christmas Eve - this year we picked a restaurant that was practically empty (but it was tasty!)

Opening presents on Christmas morning - I don't care if there is 1 present or 100 under the tree...opening something on Christmas morning is special and important for me. This year we had more presents than we deserve but it was a fun time!

Presents from Santa - with his handwriting. I don't remember when I learned that Santa wasn't real (I don't think it was very traumatic for me) but I still like to get presents from him. And, Santa has distinctive handwriting...I know my dad would be proud that Santa still uses it!

Bill with a few of his gifts from this morning. An 8-bit tie and an Oregon Ducks Calendar!

Me with my penguin gifts...I love penguins!

Bill preparing to take over the world...thanks to his new handy guide!

I love my new bathrobe! I probably won't use it much here in the jungle, but I can't wait to use it next winter!

Bill is very excited about our new printer!

Bacon was very excited to play with all the wrapping paper!

Cinnamon Rolls for breakfast - homemade cinnamon rolls are delicious and we always eat too many..but it wouldn't be Christmas without them!

Relaxing after opening presents - and playing with all our new "toys"!

Christmas dinner - whether it's big or small, Christmas dinner is always special. And, Bill and I look forward to HAM all year long!

It was so special to spend Christmas dinner with good friends. I was afraid we would be alone today, but we were able to spend a wonderful evening with great company!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and that you were able to enjoy your family and traditions. Our day was happy and special and I'm already looking forward to next year! Merry Christmas!!