Christmas Day with the Bishops!

This was our year to spend Christmas Day with Brad's family. Since we both get quite a bit of time off over the Christmas holiday, it makes sense for us to travel to South Carolina then (instead of at Thanksgiving), but we do like to be able to spend Christmas day with each family every other year.

The school year calendar had me teaching on the 23rd - boo - so we left Thursday morning to drive down to the Quad Cities. We spent that afternoon and night with Brad's parents and then were able to wake up Christmas morning at grandma and grandpa's house! Beth, Gene, and Cal arrived later that morning, so the boys were still able to play and take their afternoon naps before the Christmas festivities began. All of the adults happened to take naps as well. I don't actually remember falling asleep, but when I woke up Brad was asleep next to me on the couch, Gene was asleep on the floor with Gracie (their dog), and Beth was asleep in the over sized chair. It was pretty funny looking...well, at least I thought so! Thankfully, grandma and grandpa were upstairs playing with the toddlers. Now that was a Christmas present.

Once Matt and Karen arrived, it was time for dinner. Mama B had set out appetizers for the afternoon, but I had tried not to eat too much so that I would be hungry at dinner time. Dinner was delicious. We had ham, salad, cheesy potatoes and so much more. we also had plenty of desserts! After everyone was stuffed, we all passed out presents and gathered around to open them. The kiddos were especially fun this year to watch! I love Christmas time.

The Bishop's have officially started the "dollar or under gift" tradition. Each of us buys or gets a gift for each family member that is one dollar or less. It ends up being pretty humorous. Brad and I started collecting in January and did so all throughout the year. We kind of stunk at it the first year, but this year we planned way ahead and I think we did better! Although, I don't know if we'll ever be able to top Matt and Karen's gifts. Those two are just too funny and they come up with the best stuff. One notable present was the hair and makeup Barbie that Beth gave to Karen. Oh my stars, that thing was terrible and hilarious at the same time! This is definitely a tradition we enjoy each year.

ready to eat  |  he loves presents...and boxes

Merry Christmas Bishop/Pilcher family! We had a great time and we're already "planning" and looking forward to next year.