Over the meadow......

We really did go over the meadow to grandma's house. Rich's parents have never lived within driving distance for us to spend Christmas day together until now and we really enjoyed the day.

We awoke to Uncle Gary arriving with bags of goodies, much like Santa, except he had all the ingredients he needed to cook us a delicious breakfast and his famous mashed potatoes for dinner. Later in the day, after mom made a delicious meal, we went to Rich's sister, Wendy's house, for dessert with some extended family we haven't seen in far too long. It was so great to get caught up and to see all the kids, 13 I think, together.

There was some juggling of clementines by Rich's dad, really, what says Christmas more than that? And a seriously choreographed dance routine by Zoe, McKenna, and Wendy's adorable Madison. I feel so blessed to be a part of Rich's family. The only thing that would have made it perfect is if Pam, John, and the kids would have been there.

Finally, one of the most special gifts I received was from Pam. She gave me her "prototype" as we like to call it that she diligently and lovingly stiched and created with her own hands. I got the original, and I know it is going to be difficult for me to put him away after Christmas, I just may not.