Merry (late) Christmas!

We got all packed up and headed over to Illinois on Saturday to spend Christmas with the family. It was nice to have a few days before the big holiday to relax and get last minute shopping done (and of course a trip to Panera was nice too, thanks Howard!). Our Christmas was a bit smaller this year than usual, we missed those that weren't in attendance, but we did manage to have a fun time!

The morning started out with a laugh (even though it was the early hour of 7 am and mom already had her camera out)-Howard was supposed to wear the Christmas pants that my mom, dad, and I all have alike, so he could match us-but one problem, they were a bit SHORT. Poor Howie.

My parents gave us some great things-but my most favorite...a crock pot! I have been longing for one of these since we got married, somehow the classic wedding present I didn't receive! So look out, I'm bound to be using that thing nearly 5 nights out of the week. I'm also thankful that someone gave me a Slowcook Recipes cookbook. My mom got a laptop that my dad hid from her until the last moment, because she is a classic PP (present peeker)! Sophie even forgot she had a bow on her head after she opened this yummy bone from her stocking.

We wrapped things up with our annual gift exchange-I ended up with a digital frame, which I plan to put on my new desk!...but my poor dad ended up with a decorative picture (that I loved-however, it wasn't exactly his style! haha) It was quite hillarious, but in the end I think everyone was happy with their picks! Here are a few other photos from the day...so from our family to yours, Merry Christmas!