Well, it went as expected. Last night was the reading of Luke 2, prayer, singing some Christmas songs accapella, and opening most of the gifts for the adults. We all were thankful for the gifts received. I was up until 2 in the morning watching the newest Mummy movie I'd gotten from my brother-in-law and setting up the Wii to save some time in the morning.

Kids woke us up before 8 yelling Merry Christmas with much excitement in their voices, which, by the way, sounded much like nails on a chalk board. Coffee was made and we went downstairs to get the cameras ready.

The kids each sat down to their respective piles of gifts and opened some shoes and a couple of practical things. Then they each opened 5 or so wrapped boxes that contained nothing more than puzzle pieces made from paper. When the puzzle was completed, it spelled out the following message, "Merry Christmas. Your present isn't this." People underestimate the pricelessness of facial expressions. Then came the Wii controllers and the lifting of the blanket that had "just been thrown" on top of the entertainement system as if to get it off the floor.

Screams ensued. Jumping up and down like they would defy the law of gravity happened several times. In-laws laughed and parents smiled and shook their heads. The morning has been spent racing on Mario Kart and installing a dishwasher. It's humourous watching a grandmother learn how to play a modern day video game system.

It's been a good day.

Merry Christmas!