Christmas 2009

We had lots of fun getting ready for Christmas. We decorated the house, put up the tree and put lights on our little pine trees outside. We also made caramel popcorn and took it to our friends and neighbors.

On Christmas Eve, we had a family Christmas program. Jackie played songs on the piano. After that, we used the figurines from our nativity to show Mary and Joseph going to Bethlehem, and the shepherds and wise men coming. Next year we need to get a more kid-proof nativity scene, since Nathan liked to play with the figurines.

Christmas Day was fun. Nathan woke us up at about 8:00 a.m., singing "Jingle Bells". This was too early since we had been up late the night before wrapping presents, and following Jackie's Peruvian tradition of drinking hot chocolate and eating panettone (like a fruitcake) at midnight.

Jackie loved her presents, including the picture she is holding of a partridge to go with the pear tree Dave bought for her previously and planted in the back yard. She also got a karaoke machine, and she and Nathan can sing duets.


Dave got lots or presents, including a Dilbert calendar, several pairs of new shoes, and a Christmas tie that plays "Jingle Bells" when squeezed.

Nathan really got into the spirit of opening presents. His method of present opening is to tear off small pieces of wrapping paper at a time, creating "confetti". He got some new trains and train tracks, and once he had opened those, he started playing right there under the tree.

Also, Dave and Nathan got emails from Santa at the North Pole. You can see the messages here: Dave Nathan.

Then, later on Christmas Day we all went to Grandma and Grandpa's house for a delicious Christmas dinner and a BIG game of Phase 10. Jackie won that game, but Grandpa is anxious for a rematch!

Merry Christmas, everyone!