Christmas Day

Christmas started early for us! Raegan burst into our room at 3:22 am and announced that Santa had already been to our house. She proceeded to tell us everything she had gotten in her stocking and that there were LOTS of big presents in the living room! I calmly told her that was nice but that it was too early. Joel wasn't so diplomatic and ordered her to get her butt back in bed! She promptly did so and even went back to sleep!! What a jewel!! We then woke her up at 8 to get the day going - we had lots of places to go.

Raegan loves her Polly Pockets and must have every one ever made! This year the newest item was the Jumbo Jet and Santa came through!

This large item was addressed to the whole family.......what could it be?!
A Karaoke Machine!! Look at Hannah Montana rocking the stage! Yes, everything Hannah Montana was on the list this year as well! Joel jumped right on the karaoke machine too - there was a party CD of love songs with over 30 hits wrapped for Mommy and Daddy!
After opening presents we went to visit Joel's grandma, Nana. She has been in failing health but Christmas Eve she suffered a stroke. We went over to help the sitter roll her to her other side - her left side was paralyzed from the stroke and it affected her sight as well. While we were there she mumbled several brief things to us; one of which was that she wanted the misery to be over. She is not well and we covet your prayers for her comfort and (if the Lord's will) quick home-going. Today (Wed, 12/26) she developed a low-grade temp and fluid in her lungs. The fear is that she is developing pneumonia. Please pray for the whole Knotts family - we are comforted and thankful that she has trusted the Lord as her Savior.

After that, we traveled out to PA for Christmas with my mom and dad. It was a nice visit. We were the first ones there and we were able to spend several hours in great conversation! It was truly one of the best conversations I think we've had. Just a neat discussion. Raegan couldn't wait to give them her presents that she bought at Secret Santa's shop at school.
This was pap's present from Raegan - a fishing picture frame. She will be sending a picture of her fishing for him to put in it. She actually enjoys fishing with Joel! Grammy's present was a beautiful necklace but the picture I took ended up blurry. It did look really great with her sweater that day! Soon, the cousins arrived and we ate lunch together.
The kids enjoying some kid conversation! I don't even want to know what they were discussing. That's Rachel on the left, then Raegan and Ryan on the right.

We were then on the road to get to Joel's parents by 2:30! What a day - it was busy but good for the soul.

Late that night I read over all the Christmas cards we had gotten and one of them really touched me.
"In Jesus we find -
the greatest depth of love,
the fullest portion of joy,
the richest measure of peace.

Only in Him~
Leah