christmas day

We went to Mark and Barbs, haven't been there in a couple years due to the pandemic.

Nothing has changed and it was as much fun as ever.

Jay's parents have this cozy place in the lower level and it is a comfortable place to stay for the winter.

The Saran Wrap game was a hit.

The guy in the middle in the plaid shirt was immersed in a detailed football conversation with the men on each side.  

 

Nieces completely wound up for Aunt Julia

What a beautiful day.   Thanks to Mark and Barb for hosting this wonderful party once again.

Love, Val

midnight santa

This tradition is somewhat new, though it has probably been five years.

The kids are grown, but Santa is still fun, though not first thing in the morning.

So while the dishwasher is being loaded and everyone changes into pajamas, Santa arrives, and we celebrate with gifts before bed.

I love it.

This year did not disappoint. The kids were sweet, the gifts were thoughtful and fun.

And then we all jumped in our beds.

Love you guys, MOM
 

christmas eve, 2022

Last week we worked on getting ready for the Christmas Eve party.  These guys were here one day for a little while.

Put the decorations in the bathroom because, you know.  If you've got them, why not?

He cooked so many meatballs, and they were delicious.

That's what his shirt said, but I question this.

Her. That's why the blanket is on the couch, keep it from smelling like a dog.

And the Holy Nativity next to the outhouse that says vulgar things and farts loudly.

These girls partied in our room all night.  Said they were playing school.

The extra room under the family room got good use too.

This is Santa who twerks his little rear and sings, "I like big butts, and I cannot lie."  I mean, really now.   He was the hit of the night.  My niece's little boy could not stop laughing.

Parents looking good:

 My nephew:

Merry Christmas all you kids.

Love always,  Mom and Dad, Grandma and Grandpa

 

happy birthday, kenya

You two:

From a birthday long ago:

From last spring:

You are nothing but patient and kind, and we wish you the happiest birthday ever.

Happy birthday, beautiful girl

Love, Val and Jay and Everybody

 

babysitting

We were asked to babysit so they could do some Christmas shopping.  There were six of us here, all adults.  Seemed like we could handle it.

We kept him under control.

Just kidding.  He's pretty docile.

We all cuddled him, and he liked looking at toys. Kai read him a book, and he liked it.

And then we had ham and cheesy potatoes.  Someone had put on the grocery list: Ten pound ham.

Okay.

So we bought one.  

Turns out it was a joke!

Only not so much. We put it in the crock pot and it was fantastic.

Pretty nice Sunday.

Love, Mom