Christmas time came and went with a series of happy reunions, overstuffed bellies, and the giving and receiving of much desired gifts! The festivities began on Christmas Eve with a dinner catered by none other than Dr. Kain, otherwise known as my Dad. Mark Barton thrilled us with salmon, barbecued chicken, and even a slab of ribs (specifically for Ammon), followed by desserts of trifle and chocolate cake. He even sweetened the deal by bringing some egg nog (specifically for Lisa). Elena awoke for her last feeding for the evening, just in time to hear our reading of Luke II. She proceeded to spit up most of her meal in the middle of the chapter. As a family tradition in Ammon's household, we watched A Christmas Story ("You'll shoot your eye out"), said goodnight, and waited for Santa to come.
The next morning was glorious! We waited for the scone dough to rise and opened our gifts. Dad received an IPOD and scrapbook of all the kids growing up, Lisa received books on the Medici Family of Italy and a biography on Ataturk, and the grand prize of a beautiful picture of the Nauvoo Temple with red leaves. Ammon received books on Cicero, one of the great political philosophers of Rome, as well as a book of guitar tabs for the Beatles. He had already received a tin of See's Toffeettes candy, but we ate that early in December. Elena of course was the star of the show, receiving many, many toys. However, she could not have been more disinterested and wanted a nap instead. I have those kinds of days too.
After presents, we started our brand new Magnusson family tradition- that of making homemade scones for breakfast on Christmas morning! It is a delightful recipe and we promptly stuffed ourselves on the sausage, bacon, and all the scones we could eat. We had to pull the earphones off of Dad so he would at least eat with us. Ammon and Dad went to go see "Blind Side," the movie, and give it two thumbs up. Lisa and Elena took naps, which they also give a two thumbs up. Later that evening, Ammon and Lisa (mostly Ammon) prepared Christmas dinner, boasting of a delicious turkey, potatoes, gravy, and stuffing. His friend from college, Brandon Nelson, also tagged along. It was a great holiday!
One of the highlights I must say is seeing my good friend Sierra Read and her husband Noah; but especially their little 10 month old, Norah. She is gorgeous and was into everything! We had to blockade her in using chairs from our table. It was wonderful to see her again and I hope I look that great when Elena's that old. It was sweet to watch Sierra cradle my baby and see how much she has developed in the motherly way. It was a blast!
I have decided that more people around at Christmas definitely is the merrier!
1 comment:
Sounds like a fun time! That niece of mine is darn cute!
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