Christmas Eve: Grand Forks Wennerstens

Because we are crazy, we decided to go with the rest of my family to North Dakota as planned for Christmas. However, because of the unplanned accident and following surgery, we couldn't leave the day we planned. This forced everyone in my immediate family to leave on 12/24 and make the return trip on 12/25. that would add up to about 13+ hours in the car in roughly a 24 hour period. Not ideal for anyone, especially people who are nice enough to transport the crabby pregnant chick (that would be me) and the unpredictable toddler (that would be our kid).

Traditionally, we celebrate Christmas Eve with my mom's family by going out to lunch at our favorite Mexican restaurant. This year, we didn't make it in time, so we had to start with yet another tradition: Christmas dinner. Christmas dinner for 15 is a pretty big deal though no matter how you look at it.

Grandpa Budd lighting the centerpiece candles before dinner. One looooooooooooong table. Another favorite tradition: no kid's table. Everyone HAS to eat at the same table because that is why we are there: to be together!
Aunt Megan entertaining William before dinner. Here they are "booming" down the steps. Don't know how to play? Sit your backside on the step and slide it down to the step below you. When your behind hits the step, say "BOOM!" Very, very fun!
Grandpa's turn for entertaining. Here they are talking on the phone using Great Grandpa's Yatzee game.
Grandma and Aunt Megan doing dishes
Mama trying to set up the tripod for some family pictures in front of the tree. Yet another great tradition is taking a family picture of each family group in front of the Christmas tree. I used to HATE and I mean hate this tradition. However, now I really appreciate being able to look back and remember each Christmas and see how our family has changed.
But, then everyone decided they would rather sit on the couch. Argh! Oh well! Here are all my cousins on my mom's side of the family and my grandparents (mom's parents).
My immediate family
The McGarry's (and Heidt's)
The Heidt's (and mama is rocking the "Very, very tired" look here). I think this look is going to be very in in 2009...especially at our house
More Heidt's
My grandpa wears this same bow tie and pop up Santa pin every year. I remember playing with the Santa when I was really little. It is pretty special to see William playing with it this year (and he was FASCINATED).
William didn't really understand the whole present thing at first. He was more interested in picking up all the wrapping paper and putting it into Great Grandpa's garbage bag.
Helping Mama open up his presents: Mr Potato Head
He LOVED it! We spent a LONG time playing with Mr Potato Head before we could move on to the next present. This face he is working on is a little bit Picasso-esque, don't you think?
Grandpa trying out Scott's new binoculars...can you see Santa?