This was one of the best ever. All our children and grandchildren were here - spent the night too! Alex said, "I bet it's been 25 years since everyone was here overnight." He's right.
The Lord gave us a bigger house - and everyone has been so excited to be able to come to Granny and Papa's for the first time in 4 years. Thanksgiving was wonderful - and Christmas was even better. We had every couch full, all the little kids' cots, the daybed and trundle, 3 blow-up beds, and even some of the recliners - then the 4 biggest grandsons slept on the living room rug after having an xbox marathon until 3 a.m.
Jill noticed that Chris was trying to win an IPad and asked if we would like to all go together and surprise him with one. Of course, we did and we could all hardly wait until we could watch him open it. Priceless. He was "blown away".
Homemade waffles for breakfast (except Jackson and Millie who ate Fruity Pebbles). Warmed up left-overs for lunch. Then everyone stayed as long as they could and one by one left during the day. Made the usual "let-down" after Christmas so much less!
Our friend and in-law...Gerry's dad, Gerald, went home to be with Jesus Christmas morning. How our hearts ache for Gerry, Sheila, Chad and Wendy - and all the family. Our grandsons were somber when they first arrived and red-eyed. We know they are all heartbroken... but Gerald? He is whole, happy and rejoicing with all those in heaven. Again, someone will be meeting our little April before we do. I get teary every time I think on it all.
There are many things we cannot understand, but this I know - God is good. He is faithful. His Word stands forever. We are counting on it!
