Christmas 2008

We had nice quiet Christmas this year. It was just the three of us, but we still wanted to make sure that we kept up some of our own traditions. On Christmas Eve we started the evening with the dinner my family always had which is German potato salad (the recipe my Oma always made. Since we aren't in Germany it was hard to find some of the needed ingredients, but we were able to find some close substitutes that made it still very yummy) we also had ham, bread, sparkling grape juice, and I added green beans.

My first try at Oma's potato salad, all decorated and ready to be eaten.


Our pretty table, full of yummy food.

Getting ready to eat.

After dinner Michael and Emma reenacted the Christmas story, while I narrated it. We were only going to read it and look at pictures but Emma really wanted to play with a baby Jesus and to dress up like Mary, so we thought why not. It was really cute. I am excited to continue the tradition for years to come.

Mary and Joseph, the wise man, the angel, the shepherds, the inn keeper, etc. :)

We ended the evening by walking around the neighborhood looking at all the lights, then coming home to sing a couple Christmas carols and eating a few cookies ourselves before setting some out for Santa.

Our house all decked out in lights.

On Christmas morning Emma woke up at 8am, probably the latest I have gotten up on Christmas morning, but it was so nice to sleep in a little. We then went out to see if the cookies and milk were gone and what presents we all got. Emma was so excited to see everything.

Our tree with full stockings, and the adorable bed Opa made for Emma. (Emma loves it!)

Emma opening her presents

Indulging ourselves in the traditional "little smokies." Sooo yummy. This was a tradition Michael's family did, and I love it!!

Playing with our gifts. We decided to get Emma a number of new baby things, with hopes that she will find joy in taking care of "her" baby, while Mom brings home another. :)

Christmas day ended by having the Mickelsens over for dinner and some games. It was once again very yummy, and a lot of fun to have them here. All in all it was a great couple of days. I can't believe that they are already gone. You spend so long preparing for it and then it goes by so fast. I am truly grateful to have the gospel in my life that reminds me of the real reason for the season, and to have a wonderful family to help share in all those sweet memories.