Christmas Day 

Christmas Day began bright and early much to our late risers dismay.  Our late risers are Bill and Grandma Lois.  To make sure they would make it to our house by 9 am (which was a compromise time because I wanted it to be at 8), we had Laura and Blackie sleep at their house.  Once the Grandma group had their breakfast at Lois's house, they made it over to our house.

While waiting for them, I made a breakfast casserole and Heath made his ever popular hot chocolate.  Emily also made sure the tables were set for our Christmas meal that would be held at one.  She was also preparing her turkey for the oven.

We opened our presents knowing that we had a lot to do that morning.  Still it was hard to tear ourselves away from the tree.  Mike got a fishing rod and reel and really wanted to try it out.  It was a beautiful day.  I received a camera but did not really have any time right then to check it out.  Suzanne received an Apple watch from her parents and Laura dropped everything to provide free tutoring on how to use it.

Nevertheless duty called and we all got to work.  Suzanne had made pecan and pumpkin pies and a cheesecake earlier in the week as well as cranberry eggnog cupcakes.  However, she still had to make her acorn squash dish and Heath was assigned (by his wife) the brussel sprouts.  So they took over the oven in the shed while Laura disappeared to work on our annual party favors.

Emily was in charge of the turkey and stuffing.  She had make the crockpot mashed potatoes the day before and our guests were bringing the rest.

After our dinner, Laura commemorated the event by confiscating my new camera and taking group shots.  She did a good job.  Looks like a group that had enjoyed a great meal and the chance to spend time together.