Christmas Day--Celebrating Jesus' Birthday in Indee

We woke up on Christmas morning to find that Santa Claus had found us in Nelson at Grandma Pat and Grandpa Denny's house--our stockings had goodies in them, much to everyone's delight! Abby informed me a few weeks ago that Santa always seems to give her "dental hygine" products in her stocking, and he didn't disappoint again this year!!! *smile*

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We loaded up all of our newly received treasures, our bags, and the dogs to head to Independence. The dogs were with us on our trip this year, as there was "no room in the Inn"--the Holidog Inn, that is. In an obscure, somewhat sacreligious sort of way, that reminded me of how poor Mary was due to give birth to baby Jesus, and there was "no room in the inn" for her and Joseph, but a kind innkeeper offered them a spot in his stable. A humble beginning for our Savior!Jack and Sophie were also offered some kindness when there was "no room in the inn"--a kind grandpa offered them a spot on his back porch--with a space heater! Thanks, grandpa!

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When we arrived in Independence, we had another Christmas celebration -- this time with Grandma Deb, Grandpa Ken, Grandpa Edward, Chad, Nicole, Carter, and Bradley.

Here is Austin and Carter opening their gifts...

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the Klimek Boys
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Grandma and Carter
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Opening gifts--the Dorwin Family and Grandma Deb

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Grandma Deb spoils our dogs--Jack and Sophie love her! Look who thought he was hot stuff when Grandma let him sit on the sofa with her!

Jack and Grandma... (I think he is smiling, too!)

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Grandpa Ken, Grandpa Edward, and Abby

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Ken, Grandpa, and Deb~

This was our first Christmas without Meme. We missed her! We were able to take some special time to go around the room and share some memories of Meme and reminisce about some of the good times we shared with her--I know Grandpa enjoyed that!

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Grandpa Edward and Abby

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Andrew John--modeling his new Vikings hat

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Austin Craig

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Poor Toby had a traumatic day, as Jack and Sophie kept sniffing at him. Now, just imagine being a five pound little dog and having two big Golden Retrievers with their big, wet noses coming at you from all ends sniffing and licking--SCARY! He spent most of his day hiding in the comfort of Chad or Nicole's arms, as far away from Jack and Sophie as possible!

Here is Toby with his new toy...

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We had a fun Christmas Day in Independence. Our ride home was not as fun, as Jamie had to drive in blowing snow. There were some times when he couldn't even see the road due to all of the snow covering it, but he did a great job, and we made it home without incident.

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What a Merry Christmas!!!