Christmas in the D

This morning we got up and headed out to the Detroit area to have Christmas with the Kellogg side of the family.  Mom called before we left and said that the roads were really icy and it was freezing rain there, so not to rush.  We didn't have any problems until we were east of Lansing, and then there were cars in ditches, trucks sliding all over, and lots of ice.  It took us awhile but we arrived safely and just in time for lunch.  Dave had to work, so we just hung out for the afternoon (and Jill, Jess, Justin and I made our day after Christmas stop at Target- cut to Rainah shouting, "Yeah, Target:!)

When Dave got to mom and dad's we had a delish dinner and then tore into the gifts.  Everyone made out pretty good again and then we ate yet again... yummy desserts, which there are never a shortage of at the Kellogg's.  

We got some very cute Santa Clause pictures made out of Hayden and Talan's hand prints, and Hayden got us an ornament for our Christmas tree from his Secret Santa shop.  He also got Rainah a very cute stuffed whale which she just loves.  There were lots more toys and the kids all had a great time playing together. 

Thanks for letting all the craziness happen all over again at your place mom and dad!

One word... NUTTY!

That would be the sign for, "More".  She knows exactly what to do now!

Me

Mom

Rainah digging in- hope that was hers

Don

Jill

Hayden and Grandma

The best gift an almost 6 year old can get - the Burpmaster (and Uncle Justin got the Fartmaster... boys will be boys)

Turkey Day at the Petersen's

This year we opted to attempt Thanksgiving at our place, so mom and dad came out a few days before to help out. Jill, Dave, and Hayden and Talan came out thanksgiving morning and the kids had a geat time all playing together. On the menu was a fresh turkey from the famous Grist Mill seasoned with apple maple butter with stuffing. We also whipped up some twice baked potatoes, green bean casserole, cranberry salad, rolls, squash, and pumpkin muffins. And it wasn't so bad if I do say so myself!
Every year at the table mom sets each place setting with a gift - an ornament for our Christmas tree. It always has some sort of meaning... this year Rainah got crayons, Don got an ambulance, and I got a camera.
We finished up the day with yummy dessert including mom's pumpkin pie and some cheesecake. We wer so glad to host and thankful that most of the family could drive out to us. We missed Jessica and Justin as they were in Florida with Justin's family.
Here's a few photos (most of which I did not take since I was slaving away- :) )


It's hard not to make that face when you're touching that!


Ewww


Pouring that yummy apple maple butter






Rainah opening her ornament






Lookin good!


Place cards... made from Rainah's hands and feet


Time to dig in


You don't want to get on her bad side!


The Skivers


The Petersens