Sandy Toes and Salty Kisses

So much can happen in a year.  Last year at this time, we were sledding with our family and friends; what fun that was, and what a contrast to this year; Christmas at the beach.  We had a full house and then some, and it is the first time that we have had all of our Grandchildren together for Christmas as well as all four of our oldest children and their spouses, we also enjoyed my daughter in law Himilce's family who were all a part of a wonderfully happy Christmas.  We were  blessed with an unexpected and somewhat last minute gift; four days in a vacation rental on the beach.  We are all still in awe that we were able to enjoy this blessings; definitely a Christmas marked with joy and happiness.  How wonderful to wake up to the sound of the waves, and walk with cup of coffee in hand out on the deck to see the sun coming up in the morning.

We brought our little tree and a few decorations, shopped for food at Sams and the grocery store.  Everyone cooked on Christmas day, including Himilce's Mom, who made some delicious Puerto Rican food together with Himilce.  The only negative was the flu virus that made its way through our family, starting with our grandson Elon, poor little guy, and ending with us (which considering how bad it has made Steve and I feel, I am amazed at how well Elon and Nathan and Himilce and Elyse did through Christmas).

Luke made gingerbread houses with his little nephews, and also made them each a miniature cross bow, which shoots match stick sized arrows…did they ever love that.  I didn't get a picture of it, but I might have to do a separate post on it later.  

We missed Russ, Olga and Eddie this year.  It seems almost impossible to get everyone at once.  But God has His timing, and one of these days, I believe we will all be together again. Here is a recap of our Christmas in pictures:

 Cousins

5 Little Grandsons.

Himilce's Sisters Marina and Olga.

 

Himilce's Father, Ray, and sister Olga.

 Olga and Marie.

Marie and Elizabeth.

Himilce's Sister Amanda.

Elyse  opening a present.

Christmas Breakfast. 

Morning Sunrise.

 I love the gifts of building and engineering that seems so natural in little boys.

You crown the year with your bounty, and your carts overflow with abundance.

Psalm 65:11

HAVE A WONDERFUL NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!