christmas eve

We started Christmas Eve festivities at Grandpa Great and Aunt Cynthia's. Paige organized it so we all showed up at the same time, brilliant! It was really good to see Grandpa I don't take the time enough. (note to self: be better at that) Aunt Cynthia was darling, taking the time to visit with each of the children who would hold still long enough. Telling them how beautiful they are and learning what she could from them. Grandpa and Dad told stories of when Dad was a child. Interesting to hear stories from what seems like a different world. Eight boys in a tiny home, horses and dirt roads, tree climbing and remodeling the over 100 year old house. Grandpa will turn 86 next week! 8 boys, 36 grandchildren (all with the same last name, Grandpa seemed to find that very important. :) ) and he has lost count of the great grand kids. Fun to get this picture of all eight of our great grand kids with Grandpa and Dad. (And for the record, Dad, I agree they all have your amazing blue eyes! Take credit where credit is due.)

Wish I could have got the perfect shot, but eight kids, eight and under. It proved to be impossible! Not to mention Dad never looked at the camera once!