Christmas Day

We had a wonderful Christmas morning this year. I didn't get to sleep in because Ry got up at 6:00AM and made me get up with him, you would think he was five years old. We opened our stockings from each other and then headed out in the cold to Ry's parents' house to share our news with them. They were all very excited for us! We watched Jeffery open some of his presents and then headed to my parents house for Mckaid's phone call from Africa!!!

It was so great to hear his cute little voice, he's doing well and had lots of stories for us. He and his companion finally got rid of the fleas. He's getting used to the curry and even said he is starting to like it, poor Kaid must be starving. He said Christmas morning they delivered a bunch of little gifts and treats to the poor areas, and the kids' faces lit up and were so grateful for the small gifts. He said it was one of the most incredible experiences he has ever had, it's so humbling to hear all about his experiences with people who have next to nothing and are still happy with their lives. He was SOOO excited when we told him we are expecting (i'm still trying to figure out how to upload the video*). He says he can't wait to be the favorite uncle and is definitely planning on it. It was really hard to say our 'goodbyes' to him, we all really miss him and the great spirit he brings to our home. Africa is so lucky to have him for two whole years and get to feel the spirit he brings. He has been asking for more "post" so we all need to be better at sending him letters and help him get through all the trials he faces. We sure love and miss him!!!

After we talked to Kaid, we had some traditional Christmas morning breakfast casserole, it was delicious as always!! Then we headed back up to Ry's parents to open the rest of our gifts and hang out with them for a while. We invited everyone to go snowmobiling and sledding with us Christmas Day afternoon and had a blast. Uncle Scott, Mareesa, Marcus and the Wood family joined us up in the fields for an afternoon full of fun!

 Ry digging into is stocking at six in the morning, and if you look at his right leg, Toby thinks there is a present for him in there too.

 Trying to be awake enough to take a picture, ah so early, that's why I look so pretty!!

 Up so early we got to enjoy a beautiful sunrise... I guess it was worth it.

 Sledding with Liz and her giant chunk of snow she sucked on all day long.

 A great pic of Ry giving rides to all the kids. He is already planning on getting a small snowmobile for baby Ray...he thinks it will start riding at age three, hmmm...not sure how I feel about that.

 Sister picture!! Taking it easy while we watched the boys go off jumps, I think Mareesa is done trying jumps. Last time we went she hit the jump SO hard she flew forty-five and was over twelve feet in the air. As she flew through the air I just kept praying we wouldn't have to rush her broken little body to the hospital. Luckily, she landed her jump, her helmet and goggles saved her face that hit the kill switch and handle bars, and she came out with a few bruises on her knees and shins, but other than that she was ok.

Ry and I taking a little ride together... 

 Uncle Scott enjoyed his time out with us, but next time we'll need to find some snow pants, the sweats didn't keep the freezing snow out too well.

Tyler, Marcus and Ry going off the jump at the same time...

 The sunset and last ride of the night, it was beautiful!!!

Ry taking Liz down to the car.