Tis' the weekend before Christmas and all through my house things have been in celebration mode. Saturday night we had our family Christmas. Both James and Allen and families are heading to in-laws for the Day so we planned a Saturday before Christmas Christmas.

Unfortunately Allen got a bad flu bug and couldn't join us, so James, Ashley and the kids came over for a fine time on our own. Here's a few shots of opening the presents:

I got little stockings for the grandkids. Aunt Betty already gave them BIG ones!

Trying to figure out how to set Nathan's new watch.

Babolat bag for James' new Babolat racket!

Just what he always wanted—a Nerf bow that will shoot 100'. Nathan took me outside at his house today and told me a friend of his shot a Nerf arrow from the ground all the way up to the second floor roof! He was pumped!

American Girl Dolls

Meet Rebecca and Samantha.

Charis got money for an electronic item she wanted.

Charis got an American Girl doll, Kit, when she was the age of Kristen and Lydia. She bought a second with her own money. So the three of them played dolls.

Nathan and James reading about their gift from Uncle Allen.

As soon as Nathan shook the box, he began his Lego happy dance.

What could be better than Legos?

This morning's worship was a celebration of Christmas with a variety of elements. I included a few more shots of Charis dancing with Abby just because I can!

Heather and Emma.

James led the worship team today.

Abby (left) and Charis.

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Dave and Ken on the recorder and portable pump organ. It was a charming piece!

I love how Bethel includes so many of the arts in worship! It was a wonderful service capped off with Pastor Walt's message from The Angels' Song "Glory to God in the highest!"

And now we anticipate our Christmas Eve service before the main event: Joy to the world: the Lord is come!

Merry Christmas everyone!