True Meaning of Christmas

This year, after visiting Der's work, we realized how fortunate we are. Our family decided to visit D's work and bring his client's and co-workers some Christmas Cheer. And as usual, I think we got more out of it than they did. Sara played her guitar and Shelb sang carols. I brought my beads and they made their own jewelry. Mom brought shaving kits for the men. We all raised enough money to give each of D's co-workers some cash, which was so deserved and needed.... Thanks to all the family who took the time, even on their lunch breaks to bring some joy to some who can't even speak but the music brought tears to their eyes, which D's boss said are tears of happiness since they can't express themselves verbally...

Jake was very confident with the clients since at school he has kids with special needs integrated into his classroom, so awesome:). Jonah went around and passed out cookies. Ash was a little hesitant and Alex didn't know what to think- nevertheless, I hope the kids will always remember this day.

Glenda (above) just had surgery and was so excited to make jewelry for her friend. These people don't expect much at all and have huge hearts.

Doug, Ann, Ondy, Je, went around and helped the ones that couldn't bead and made their jewelry for them with their favorite colors.

Ondy even brought some of her clothing that she thought some would like-

Chad's been so busy at work and it meant a lot to me that he'd take some time off to come. I think he was touched. The workers, like Derek, amaze me that they don't get paid much but work so hard- often very laborious work like changing diapers, etc. and do it with a smile.

Then, on the Twenty-Third is Roger's side Quiet Party for Christmas- a tradition we love where we have a candlelit dinner (steak and the whole bit) the cousins get soooo excited

There are Ten of the cousins now- Ashley has a girl cousin now- Chels and Jeff's Eden. Of course, the boys are all so close in age they love being together even if it does get a bit crazy. This year, I was impressed how well they minded Nana. Thanks to Nana and Papa for all their hard work.

We do a Toast with our wine glasses.....

This year the older two Jonah and Jake, moved up to the "Adult Table" Big Step in the family:)

Of course we have the Manger Scene- Ashley and Max make the most adorable "Mary" and "Joseph"- last pics before my camera died...

Prince is into everything and tries to cause havoc on the manger scene here....all the cousins yell at him to stop but he is already a tease kinda like his papa and daddy.

So cute, right?

This year, Marsha gave Chad and his sisters a scrapbook she'd been working on for the entire year with all their pictures from baby on...It was crazy to look at pictures of my hubby when he was just a babe and how much my Alex looks like him. there were even pics of Chad and I on a trip when we were eight in California and we were standing next to each other at Disneyland and to think some day.....pretty crazy. tonight we are off to Jones' side for more festivities.

Wishing you all a Very Merry Christmas and happy holidays.