T-Town Mitchell Minutes: Christmas

I can't believe today is Christmas. But I am very glad it is over. I love the holiday season, the family gatherings, buying people presents, and all the fun that comes with it.

We traveled to Butler, Missouri last Sunday, December 19th to have Christmas with the Mitchell side of the family. Most everyone was there, minus a few. They live all over the place so its hard to get everyone together. They are always such a fun group to get together. Lots of joking and laughing and of course Grandma's wonderful cooking. We enjoyed a wonderful soup buffet dinner and a fun filled gift exchange. You never know what you are going to get which is what makes it so much fun. Between the two of us we got a shake weight and the clapper plus (you know the clap on clap off machine) and two jars of Grandma's homemade jelly. Here's a picture of the two little ones playing outside between everything. If I remember correctly this was the first time for them both to be at Great Grandma and Grandpa Mitchells.

Christmas Eve morning we traveled to Ottawa to have Christmas with Justin's parents Tim and Marcia, his brother; Caleb, Caleb's girlfriend Haylie and her dog Leia, sister; Miranda, brother-in-law; Matthew and their dog Rocky and we brought our dog Jazz. We enjoyed a nice brunch and then exchanged gifts. This year we tried a gift exchange between the six of us kids. Justin got Caleb and Caleb got Justin, Miranda got Haylie and Haylie got Miranda, Matthew got me and I got Matthew. I dont think it could have worked out that way even if it was planned. We all went in and got their parents a years subscription to Netflix which they totally loved. Justin got a couple of video games and I got a candle warmer, a couple different TV series DVD's, and together we got an ornament with a wedding picture on it. The three dogs made for an eventful time, they played nicely together but each had their moments of not knowing how to handle each other.

Christmas Eve Evening we enjoyed Christmas with my parents. We cooked a small traditional meal which consisted of Turkey, potatoes, green bean casserole and cranberry sauce. After we were stuffed we opened presents. Justin got a few Star Wars figurines, some dress clothes, a few more video games, and a fireplace insert (which is pretty awesome). I got a few more TV series DVD's, a board game, a sweater, a new book, and a cricut (which Im totally excited about). After my parents left we played Rock Band 3 for about 6 hours. Needless to say my drumming skills have improved and Justin has learned several new songs. Jazzy got a new collar, bone and a stuffed animal toy that she can rip the stuffing out of trying to get the squeaker. Grizz got a crinkle tunnel and a new cube to sleep in as well as some treats. The following pictures are of Grizz sleeping in his cube and Jazz chewing on her bone while holding her stuffed animal.

Today, Christmas Day we celebrated at my Grandma and Paps house (my Mom's parents) which has been tradition for me since I was little. Most of the family was there. Everyone who lives in Topeka was there. Truly the only ones missing was my cousin Chris and the 3 kids who were celebrating their first Christmas with their new little sister that their Dad and Step-Mom just had. We enjoyed the big traditional meal ham, turkey, deviled eggs, rolls and of course pickles. We filled the big table and the "kid" table. We also do a gift exchange, Justin and I came away with a summer sausage gift package and some grilling items.Late afternoon we went to my Grandma Mabel's (Dad's Mom) and visited with her for a couple of hours. It was just Mom, Dad, Justin and I for the most part.

Overall, it has been a good Christmas. As I have made tradition for us, we took some pictures in front of the tree. I made fudge tonight for the first time ever. If it turns out maybe I'll make that tradition as well. We drove around last weekend and looked at lights. Always a favorite to at least drive through the Potwin area here in Topeka and also Winter Wonderland because the money benefits TARC. Anywho, I hope all of you had a wonderful holiday and enjoyed something o matter how big or small this season. Any of you traveling I hope you have safe travels and wish you and yours all the best. Here are some more pictures to enjoy.