ONE CRAZY CHRISTMAS

A typical Downs Family Christmas...

Jas and I were really concerned for Christmas this year. With the economy and our companies in hardship, we weren't really sure what kind of Christmas we would be able to provide for our family. We decided we would try to focus on all the surrounding love the holiday brings. And ya know what? We didn't skip a beat.

We started Christmas Eve day off with a little game of football. Afterward, we got ready for the big night. Due to the lack in time, we ding dong ditched "Sparkling Ciders" at a few friends homes on our way to Mama and Papa Downs' house. When we arrived, we carried on tradition of caroling to the neighbors.

Mama and Papa Downs


The boyz looking so studly.

The girlies lookin' so hot.

And ofcourse, after filling up on yummy prime rib, homemade rolls, string beans with slivered almonds, mashed potatoes and gravy and tons of pie, we had our traditional reenactment of the Nativity Story.

Lucky Tiff

Ericka played Mary and Andrew played Joseph. Raegan, Katelyn and Aiden were the wise men. Calie was the perfect little angel and Kye, Emily and Corinne were shepherds.

And in case you missed it... Tiff was the ass. :)

So serious.

They always put on a good show!

Before bedtime we always sprinkle reindeer food on the lawn and leave a big plate of cookies 'n milk for Santa. We stake our claim with our labeled stockings in different areas of Grandma's family room... I must admit... it's getting a little squishy.

Right before bed, we open one present! And every year, to our surprise, we get Christmas Jammie's!

Then all the kidlets pile on the floor around Grandma and Grandpa's bed for a big slumber party! This year they had their new Christmas pillowcases that Grandma had made each of the grandchildren.

We were sure missin' C.J. by this point!

Getting the tribe to go to bed is quite the task.

Luckily Grandma knows what to do. They read "Twas The Night Before Christmas".

Even Corinne is excited!

The little one's are wiped out.

Soon enough, it's time to wake up...

I swear I didn't do it this year!

We all patiently wait for the green light to make our mad dash to the stockings and tree. There might just be a few casualties...

Each family is passed their presents.

Kids ravage their stockings.

Little one's are over stimulated.

Older one's are spoiled.

All the kids are happy.

Each family kind of does their own thing. We try our best to have the girls watch eachother open gifts but it doesn't take too long before they just start ripping through whatever is in sight.

All in all, it was an amazing Christmas. No tears is always a good sign. In fact, the girls were truly grateful for the gifts they did receive. Not one complaint Sometimes a smaller Christmas helps you appreciate the real reason for the season!