It was so great to be together for Christmas. They gave me the all clear to return to Mumbai on Tuesday so we had the last part of the week to spend together.
We made cookies, decorated gingerbread houses, sang carols, read the Luke 2 Christmas story, had Family Home Evening, baked bread to give to neighbors, and watched several Christmas movies!
The kids were so excited that Papa and Pluba sent the "Twelve Days of Christmas." Each day they could open a box. The shipment to India took some time, so they were able to open two a day! They loved seeing what they were given. Some were snacks to eat and others were activities to do. We built Legos together while we watched movies and we had plenty of candy to eat! They had given their gingerbread house kit to another family that they felt needed it and exclaimed that they were blessed because Pluba sent another one!
Christmas Eve we gave out fresh baked bread then sat and re-read the Luke 2 Christmas story together. At each point we discussed what we could do to be like those that sought after Christ. I loved hearing their thoughts of ways to serve and love others.
Christmas morning we had to wake the sleepy heads up so we could unwrap gifts before we went to Church! It is funny that we had to wake them...I feel like when we were younger we were ready to be awake in the dark hours of the morning!
We then were able to go to Church. It was a small group there because everyone was out on holiday. But it was still special to be there and celebrate the real meaning of Christmas.
We made Christmas dinner together. It was a family effort. Lady Hiva made orange rolls--a tradition that we have carried on from my childhood. Koala Bear made the stuffing and the candied yams. Lucky Dragon made the gravy, washed the dishes, and set the table. I made bread and the turkey. It was probably my favorite part of the day. Just working together in the kitchen.
It was a special week. We are thankful for all that we have. We are thankful for each other. We are thankful for technology so we can see family and talk with them on days like this!
