Here we are, the day after Christmas, sorting through pictures, gifts, cards, thoughts and reflecting on the day of the celebration of the birth of the Christ child. I live in a "Mother-In-Law" apartment attached to my son's home (why do they call it that; why not "Mother's" apartment - I've often wondered that)and in the past four Christmases that I've lived here; one of the children always knocked on my door at the outrageous early hour that little kids are up and chomping at the bit to see what Santa has brought for them. This year I fooled them...I set my alarm and my coffee pot for that outrageous Christmas morning hour and was in front of the tree dressed for Christmas morning with my cup of coffee waiting with my daughter-in-law and 8-year old grandson for everyone else to wake up. First came my 4 yr. old granddaughter being prodded along by Jack. My son dragged himself downstairs looking frazzled and worn out to the enth degree (he was the "bicycle-put-togetherer" and Santa's helper the night before) some 30 minutes after my arrival and my 18-yr. old grandson had to be
strongly coaxed out of bed by dad much later when we just could not make the little ones wait any longer. When we were finally all gathered, cameras ready...it began. It was so fun watching the little guys open their presents from Santa and family.
Here's my 4-yr. old granddaughter trying to get ALL of her "ponies" and farm animals in her barn. She said to us..."How did Santa know to bring me the barn, I didn't ask him for it?" We perpetuated the myth by telling her that he knew what she was thinking. She is so into animals, especially horses and was absolutely thrilled with her barn and animals. She told us that when she grows up she's going to be a Vetenarian, sing and play all the instruments just like dad, and be an artist like Tutu (that's me - grandma).
Jack is 8-years old and this is his first Christmas knowing that Santa is make believe. When he first learned that several months ago he was very sad over that fact. After all presents were opened I asked him how he like playing Santa this year he said it was sooo fun. He outgrew his first bike so mom and dad got him a larger, fancier John Deere bike.
Ellie and Jack made sure each package went to the right person.
Surprise of surprises...Jack opening his X-Box. He had no idea and couldn't imagine someone giving him X-Box games by mistake...mom assured him it wasn't a problem and that it could always be exchanged for PS2 games...when all of a sudden Santa - in the guise of dad in his pjs - brings in a present he found in the hallway. I wish I had had my camera ready to get the expression on Jack's face when all the wrapping was ripped away...then came the tears of unbelievable joy.
Where is Jacob (the 18 yr. old) in all of this...you may ask? Laying on the bean bag covered up with a quilt. I couldn't get a decent picture. He was very much an active participant; however, in that reclined position.
That's what Christmas is all about...the children. Even when they know what the season is all about, the presents take a front seat for that time, but they remember to wish Jesus a happy birthday!!!
I pray you all had a wonderful Christmas and didn't forget to wish Jesus a Happy Birthday and to thank His Father, God almighty for His Son. I love you all and thank you for following my blog.
The horses (18x18 oil on stretched canvas) were done at the request of my four-year old granddaughter. She absolutely loves “Ponies” and wanted this one to hang in her bedroom. She knows that God created them just as He created her. 
The second painting (14x18 oil on stretched canvas) I call “Safe.” This one was done at the request of a friend who said she had this on her mind for days and thought I would like to paint it. She gave me her idea on a 3x3 post-it note. We are promised a safe haven with God the Father and the Son if we but believe and accept.
