I think we decided that this was Christmas #7 for the Swansons and the McNeelys, and wow have things changed in the last seven Christmases. It started out as a simple dinner get-together with the Swansons and Ethan, the only kid for a few of those years. Fast forward to this year when it was a crazy dinner with three 2 year olds and a 6 year old!
This year I ventured out and made some of the traditional Mennonite dishes that I am accustomed to for Christmas. I made keilke, marinated carrots and cherry mousse (pronounced mose). I was pleasantly surprised that they all turned out like they were supposed to, and tasted "just like home." I think the Swansons also enjoyed a little taste of the Mennonites, as they have been hearing about us for the past 9 years! Oh, we also ate ham and rolls (not zweibach, I'm not that talented), just to make it a full meal. Priscilla ended the night with a delicious cherry pie, tart cherries with spices, not your average cherry pie!!!
The kid table and the Swanson kids flashing gang signs...I guess?
The kids and their loot. One of our rules is that only kids get gifts.
This picture of our girls in their sunglasses speaks volumes about their sassy personalities!
As with every past year, this year we had a great time. As families grow, and lives become more hectic, it is harder and harder to spend time together. We are so grateful for our friends, who are more like family, and this time of year that we get to celebrate!
Merry Christmas from the McNeelys and the Swansons!
(yep, all 4 kids are looking at the camera!!!!)
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