CHRISTMAS

  (To read all the Christmas vacation posts in order, go back one page by clicking on "older posts" at the bottom of this page.)

Christmas Eve started with a last visit at Jenna and George's. We even managed, with some effort, to take a family Christmas picture.

 Then Hanna and the kids went to children's mass at Frances Cabrini church while Marko helped Ben prepare dinner (mostly by paying him company).

 Christmas Eve dinner ...

 was incredible. Ben outdid himself. See that Yorkshire pudding?!? There was also prime rib, salmon, veggies, etc etc - for those who had left space after indulging in appetizers like lefses and cheeses.

 And finally it was time for gifts - in a one-horse open sleigh ... ;-)

 The evening kept getting better - and wilder. Picture four over-excited children, a very happy but slightly overwhelmed dog, six adults, and a sea of toys.

 

Klara and Samu in the dog bed.

 

 After this perfect Christmas Eve, it was time to return to our new home on Christmas day.

 Samu Air.

 Boston tried its best to comfort/welcome us with a gorgeous sunset ...

 ... and there were more gifts waiting for Samu and Sofia.

Thank you all! Thank you Minnesota friends, even the ones we only saw very briefly, for a wonderful vacation. We had such a great time and even though we miss you already, we are so grateful to have you in our lives! Thank you also to our families for the wonderful gifts that awaited us upon our return. We have only started to enjoy them but love them already. We are one blessed family. A merry Christmas to you all!