Merry Christmas!

For to us a child is born, 

to us a son in given, 

and the government shall be upon

his shoulder

and his name shall be called,
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6

Christmas season feels different here. Instead of snowstorms we have dust-storms and "cold season" doesn't mean below freezing- it means lows in the 70's, highs in the 80's or 90's but there are plenty of people dressed in heavy jackets, gloves, and knit hats!

we miss this...

But, the lack of snow and family hasn't kept us from finding ways to celebrate.

We've made more cookies (mostly to give away as Christmas greetings)!

And, just when I thought we weren't going to get any Christmas packages...one came on Monday!!!  We talked about waiting until Christmas day to open it, since we have only one present under the tree. But, we just couldn't wait. Then, we stumbled upon a compromise...

after Luke opened the top flap of the box

we noticed the second flaps were still taped together- still concealing the box contents (way to go, Mom) :)

so, on the day before the day before Christmas,  we began removing items from the box one-by-one

so far we've retrieved some pretty awesome stuff

Luke loves Peeps!

Its Christmas morning as I'm posting this...and we have somehow managed to save about 1/3 of the box contents for today. :) But first, its time to enjoy some cinnamon rolls, coffee (which will hopefully help me stay awake for a the 3 hour church service today) and bacon!  Thank you to those who have sent us the cinnamon, coffee, bacon, and pecans that have made this Christmas breakfast possible. I hope you all have a wonderful day with friends and family!