Christmas, Christmas, Christmas

Christmas started when we got presents in the mail from Uncle Eric and Auntie Heather.  The kids were in heaven.  Candy, chocolate, toys, Chicago Bears gear, Aerial dress.....doesn't get much better than that!

Next up was Christmas Eve.  This year we went to the Froehle's.  Their church is beautiful and reminds me of Trinity Church in Owatonna, only about 3 times bigger.  The music was amazing!  After church we went back to the Froehle's and spent time together as Carla and Luke prepared dinner.  Papa showed off his artistic side and did face painting for all the kids.  He did a fabulous job and the kids loved it!  Dinner was so yummy and then we were off to open presents.  Our kids were so tired by the end of the night they were asking to go to bed.....that only happens when they are exhausted!  Such a special night with our family.  It's an afternoon and evening every year that I cherish as it's all about family and the special bond we have.

These 4 had a blast this year!  Growing up and loving cousin time!

This picture makes me smile as I love my family so much!

 Papa's Tiger Masterpiece

 Playing with Bishop and we are always doing crazy things!

 And my beautiful niece Nora!

Love this picture with my sister & mom.

We don't get many of these anymore so this is extra special!

 Uncle Luke & Auntie are so good to Madelyn.......

......and Jack!

Even though his face doesn't show it, he loves his garbage truck!

 Basically Sisters!

We just love Nana & Papa!

Christmas Morning the kids were up bright and early to see if Santa stopped.  Lucky kids, Santa made it to our house! :)  Madelyn got an Aerial doll and a kitchen for her dolls.  Jack got a tractor, loader, dump truck all in one!  The kids played with their toys for a little bit and then we were off to Iowa to celebrate with the Bormann's.

The fun continued in Iowa with Grandpa, Grandma and all the aunts and uncles!  The kids just love it there as there is so much room to run around and they get attention from the minute we walk in until we are driving out of the driveway.  More delicious food, family time and of course presents!  Grandpa made Madelyn an art desk and Jack a machine shed.  We are going to have to add on to our house to accommodate all of Grandpa's homemade creations.....and I will gladly do that as his work is amazing!

Turned out pretty much perfect this year, thanks to the selfie stick!

Next year we should have another entire family picture at Uncle Eric & Auntie Heather's wedding!

Adorable smiles....Grandma and Madelyn!  And Grandpa with Ms. Giggles

Uncle Chris, Madelyn & Ms. Michelle

Madelyn loves her doll outfit and puppy!

Michelle and Madelyn both got "helpers" from Grandpa!

Jack's practicing for his senior picture poses

Madelyn's new desk......

.....and Jack's new machine shed!

 Grandma got a new setting in one of rings and it was specially designed by Auntie Heather.  

It is gorgeous and very special!!!

 The machine shed also works as a coloring/drawing board

 Always smiling and having fun with Uncle Marc!

On Saturday morning we were back on the road, heading to the cities, to the Froehle's for our last Christmas celebration of the season.....the Bishop Family Christmas.  It is very special to still have my Grandpa Ray active and able to attend all the celebrations.  The kids talk about GG Ray and GG Darlene as they are always getting them special toys and giving them lots of love.  A busy and fun 3 days of celebrating!!

 The Greats with the Greats

I'm not sure who has more fun!!

 The Whole Crew.....who were able to make it!