Before the pitter-patter of little (and not so little) feet on Christmas morning, Molly stood laid guard in front of the stockings. After all, we wouldn’t want any intruders.

Jake was chosen to read the story of Jesus’ birth from Luke 2. I have no idea what Derek found so funny at the time, but I’m guessing there was some extracurricular activity going on in the room.

We asked Jeremy to guess what the big stick coming out of his stocking was. Naturally, he guessed it was a gun.

But he was wrong.

Then Ruthie got her hands on the hockey stick. GOOAAALLL!

Molly waited ever so patiently for Derek to help her open her stocking stuffer. We got a kick out of her as she inspected each of the hanging stockings earlier that morning, and when she came to hers stuffed with dog treats, she stopped dead in her tracks. She kept her nose up to the stocking in anticipation.

Ruthie also waited with anticipation to open her gift.

She received a stack of board books (a.k.a. books without pages so as not to be destroyed by slobbering, ripping hands). After she opened it, the boys took an impromptu break–even though there were more presents to be opened–and read for a while.

Meet Bubbie J, master drummer.

We got dressed up and put our party shoes on in preparation for a Christmas Eve celebration with the Johaniks.

Incidentally, Ruthie’s party shoes–approximately two sizes too big–offered extra balance as long as she stood still.

Molly had a canine guest this year when Noel and Nicole brought the newest member of their family, Wiley.

They weren’t exactly the fast friends we hoped they might be, but I’m confident their relationship will grow over time.

Jake received a flying saucer toy that launched up to the ceiling. The kids had fun watching it fly. Sometimes Ruthie was right there with them…

…and sometimes her timing was a little off.

Saying good-bye to everyone.

Jeremy sporting some new pajamas.

We appreciate the Johaniks’ generosity toward these kids.