Christmas morning started off with the stocking discoveries. It was fun to do some Christmas things for my parents that they usually do for me. I enjoyed giving them surprises, even if they were just small things like car air fresheners, mouthwash, travel toothbrush covers, lotion, soap, fruit, crackers and cream cheese, treats, etc.
Mark discovered granola, racquetball gear, and other items and treats in his stocking. I was given one of my favorite treats, Cadbury Eggs (saved from Easter in the freezer). I thought that was pretty funny. :)
Below is the display of the gifts right before opening them....we were spoiled again! Mark's main gift was the game Kubb, which we look forward to playing once the weather warms up a bit. My big gift was a ukelele that we bought in Hawaii while we were there. I love it!
It was such a treat this year to open gifts for a little person! :) Baby Jax received so many cute things--outfits, books, toys, picture frame, etc. This is a quilt that my mom made for the babe. Adorable, isn't it!!?? We also had the Christmas mood set all day long with fire and music on the TV, a DVD given to us by Gma Cindy.
My parents and I went to our ward in the morning. I really enjoyed singing and listening to the Christmas music. I felt like that added some Christ into our Christmas that sometimes is forgotten somewhat amongst all the gifts and excitement. It was nice to go and enjoy the spirit.
We did the trade off and Mark went to the other ward in the afternoon with his festive vest on. We did fondue for dinner after church. Everything was delicious but my favorite had to be the homemade french bread dipped in Fiesta cheese. mmmm. We topped off our holiday by doing video chat with Kimi's family, Mark's parents, and talking to Benj on his mission. I loved being able to talk to all the sibs and even see some Christmas gifts via computer. Even though it's not quite as good as being in person, it was still great to see their Christmas excitement. We played Wits and Wager and ate some yummy Parmesan jalapeno dip with crackers that night. It was a wonderful Christmas!!! Absolutely wonderful!
We have received many good gifts from Heavenly Father this year. We have been blessed beyond measure. We are thankful for good health, jobs, our marriage and relationship with each other, the healing power of the atonement, and supportive family and friends. We are so thankful for our new baby and for the selfless miracle of adoption that made it possible for him to join our family.
