Our Life: Holidays Mean Family

Christmas Dinner 2004

Around our house the holidays are all about family, friends, and spending time with one another. This year was no different. On Christmas Day we hosted over 22 (I think) people for a day of wild present opening, conversing, laughing, video games, musical performances, scooter racing, feasting, wrestling, and collective worship to the God who makes it all possible. The following pictures are but a sample of some of the scenes over the last several weeks.

I guess it all started with our pre-Chrismas visit from Grandpa Richard and Grandma Phyllis from Las Vegas. Arik and Julia love all their grandparents, but it's particularly exciting when we see Grandpa R and Grandma P since it only happens a few times a year.

Grandpa Richard (Mark's Dad)

Grandma Phyllis and Juju

Grandma P and Grandma B with Mom and Juju

Best Buds - Grandpa and Arik

Next was Christmas Eve at Mark's Sister Kathy, Brother in law Mark and Nephew Jerry's house. Jerry's at UCLA now and the kids love when they get to see him. The shots below explain why...

Kathy - the one standing - with Arik and Juju wrestling Jerry to the ground

It's a two front assault on Jerry. Arik coming in for the kill

This year both Arik and Juju were privileged to perform in the Church Christmas Pageant. Juju performed with a small ensemble before an audience of several hundred. Arik, in front of the same crowd, gave a solo performance. Both performed admirably.

Juju giving a command performance

Little Angels

Arik, to his adoring audience

And commanding attention

Finally, Christmas Day arrived. Loved ones began arriving early Christmas morning with the festivities lasting late into the night. It was a truly wonderful day with thankful hearts all around. This is the third year in a row that we've played host to such a large group (over 20). We hope to be able to carry on this tradition for many years to come.