Christmas - 2004

View out our backdoor.

We had another great Christmas in Colorado. Our "Christmas" began on Christmas eve with our annual trip downtown. While we were shopping and eating we ran into the Mathews family, along with Mel's parents Charles and Pat. Even though it had been very cold early in the week we were able to enjoy the day in shirt sleeves. Later that evening we went to church at VGBC and stopped by the Carson's afterwards.


Jacob and Brandon on Christmas morning.

Started Christmas morning at about 0630 (Jacob set his alarm!). Had a great time opening presents.


B and the boys in the CSprings airport.

We were scheduled to arrive in St. Louis around 5 p.m. but United Airlines thought it better if we arrive around 10 p.m. Unfortunately with the delay we weren't able to see Lisa (Becky's niece) until the next day. Paul and Beth also waited up for us (well after midnight). On a lighter note, Enterprise Rental was fabulous to deal with. Highly recommend.


Becky and her dad opening presents.

B and I spent the morning unpacking, sorting through presents, etc. After the boys woke up we unwrapped presents with her Dad and sister. We also opened presents later in the day with Bill, Bev, Evan and Christian (afternoon) and then Steve, Jody and Lisa (evening). Busy, but fun day.


Lisa opening presents with Annie The Dog's help

Got to see Becky's brother's family in the evening. Lisa was up from Florida and was heading out the next day. Although we felt a little "cheated" we had a good visit.


Evan, Brandon and Jacob playing in the snow

Spent most of the day with the KY Wilsons. We all met for lunch at Applebees and then went bowling. After bowling, Bill and Bev went back to the country club to put Christian down for his nap (and maybe Bill's!). Becky and I took all the boys to the movie and the mall.


(L to R) Becky, Hannah, Brandon, Jacob, Holly, Grace, Mike and Poppy (Where's Grandma?!)

Had our annual family pictures, Red Lobster and bowling with the Colorado Boyds. Added surprise this year was my dad's brother Don and his wife Louise who came up from Missouri. We started with pictures and my brother Mike's house (our first time to see, very nice!!), lunch at RL and then bowling (hey, it's Southern Illinois but we all had fun).


There's Grandma!

After a fun-filled day we went over to my Mom and Dad's to open presents.


Ashleigh and Cheridan

Got together with Robbie, Helen Keay, Ashleigh, Cheridan and Amber. They bought us a Karaoke machine and we were all trying it out.