Merry Christmas!

In just over a week we managed to construct one gingerbread house, have one visit to the ER (Luke - he's fine. He stuck a bead up his nose at school. And, no, I'm not joking...), participated in a live Nativity (Luke was a sheperd and Blake was toddler Jesus), was a part of our Christmas play at church (Blake was the sheperd this time and Luke was a wise man), and traveled close to 700 miles total. Whew. Christmas was celebrated with the Elsea Family on December 23 with MeeMee hosting. We had a great time with family and watching everyone open their packages. Too bad Nanny forgot to bring the thong this year (It's a family joke! I'll tell you about it if you REALLY want to know!). But watch out! It's sure to reappear next year! Christmas Eve was spent quietly with just the four of us. We enjoyed a dinner of steak and potatoes, opened gifts, and Justin read the real Christmas story from the book of Luke. Christmas morning we traveled to Winchester. We first visited with Nanny and then Ma. I took today off to recover (and clean and do laundry!). Unfortunately, the Lusk Family is recovering from a nasty stomach bug and won't be able to join us for the New Year as in year's past. We were looking forward to your visit and will miss you! My brother Paul spent Christmas Day in the hospital suffering from dehydration. He's doing much better. Get well soon I have a cool gift for you! Though busy - Christmas was special. I also received a holiday phone call from my childhood best friend, Valerie! Gosh, girl! I miss having a friend like you close by! It was such a treat and gift to get to talk to you so long! I mean it when I say we need a girlfriend vacation! (You're invited too Becky P.! We really need to plan something!) Merry Christmas friends and family! We love you all!