Christmas

We had a great Christmas this year.  It was way more fun this year than last year because he actually was into his presents.  Brady was incredibly spoiled and we were too! 

I love Christmas and I know it's because I have such great memories from when I was growing up.  Christmas was truly magical.  We always had this record of Christmas music that we would play as we would decorate the tree together.  Mom always let us help decorate the sugar cookies.  Once in awhile we would get together with Schau's and eat and play chug-a-lug until our throats burned.  Christmas Eve's in Breda will always be one of my favorite memories!!!  I wish Brady could have experienced this.  The anticipation and excitement of the night to come were almost unbearable that day.  It was always dark when we drove to Grandma and Grandpa's, so we were always looking for Rudolph's nose on the way up there.  And once in Breda, I always wanted to sit in the back seat so I could put my head back as we drove under the strings of lights down Main Street.  Christmas Eve mass was always in Breda with my mom's whole family.  And then the party began.  The table in the "new room" was filled with goodies.  All of us cousins together putting on the BEST SHOW EVER for the adults.  Seeing all the presents under the tree.  Once the meal was done and the presents unwrapped, the real party began.  Grandpa would put on the record player - usually the Laughing Polka and we would throw bread.  Yup - throw bread at each other to music.  At Grandma's house no less.  I should really ask about the story behind that.  :)  Sometimes we even did the Limbo.  It was great and loud and merry - what Christmas was all about.  I know things have changed and that Brady will have wonderful memories of Christmas's to come, but I would give anything for one more Christmas in Breda.  :)

Here are some pictures from this Christmas!!

Lyvie checking out the presents

Being silly in his new pj's from Grandma & Grandpa Mart

 Brady & Matthew taking a break from opening presents at Grandma & Grandpa Espenhover's house

He wouldn't set down his new Christmas cup from Aunt Jenn & Kyle.  Must have liked it.  :)

 Being goofy for Great Grandma Schelle!! 

Brady with all his presents!!