:) Christmas, 1 :)

This is what we came down to Christmas morn...

Stephen, admiring his presents :) :)

Both of our youngest, savoring the look of their presents

"Don't you see that one?"

Stockings are filled with goodies...

Impatient waiters

Happiness :)

Can't get it open fast enough! ;)

Deborah's presents were in such unique and pretty paper!

A little something from Stephen to Andrew :)

Sharing the fun :)

Ask Nathaniel about this present -- it was great!

Wow!

"What does this say?"

Enjoyment

Looks like they're happy about what's in this package!

Peeking inside :)

Inspecting a present

A darling something for the girl's room decor!

A Blogger download error -- this looks like it was taken in the 80's or something.

Nathaniel was excited about this present!

Coming next: Christmas installment #2

Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve dawned with the loveliest of light fogs on the purple tinted hills...

A day to be together as a family -- to relax and play games :)

Andrew occupies himself

Ben does too

Daddy is home for the holidays!

Mommy, making another delicious gourmet meal...

The crisp air beckoned me to go explore, so off I went...

...to take pictures

The thistles turn from purple to gold...

...and the acorn tops linger.

This little leaf caught my eye...

...and so was featured more than once, as I jockeyed for the best composition and lighting for it... ;)

Another darlingly unique leaf

The guys were so nice to help me finish the chair for my bedroom

The intriguing box that held their presents to us. ;)

The chair -- finished!

Mom went out and gathered from Nature's bounty to decorate the house

Before dinner, a present for each person appeared under the tree -- reminding us of our dear departed "Uncle Kenny."

For dinner, candles were lit everywhere...

Christmas music was playing a we gathered in the living room...

...to eat...

...and share stories! :)

Magical :)

The guys had to run off to a volunteer fire dept. call, so Deborah waits for their return.

Only a small sample of the many delicious cookies Deborah baked for us to enjoy this evening!

Each one opens the small gift under the tree...

Watching :)

Stephen enjoys the book he got before going to bed. :)

A precious, wonderful Christmas Eve!!!! What a delight it is to be with my family.