Christmas In Review

This was our first year staying home for Christmas since we've been married. I couldn't have asked for a better one.

 Christmas Eve we made all sorts of party food and watched one of our favorite Christmas movies, A Christmas Story.  If you've never watched this movie, be sure to check it out next year. It is one of the funniest movies on tv at Christmas.

Christmas morning came and we made waffles and bacon. And, of course, coffee. My parents came over to spend the day with us. They've never been with us at Christmas, so it was special.

The kids had a lot of gifts to open. Our tradition is to start with the stockings. Then, the kids dive under the tree to pass out all the gifts. Once everyone has a pile, the youngest child opens one of hers. Then the Boy gets to open one. Sissy is next. And so forth, from youngest to oldest.

My name was on the biggest box. Mr Farmer brought it in and tried to get me to obsess over it for days. He knows I don't like to wait for gifts and surprises. Knowing this, he likes to needle me. I pretend to not care, but it kills me not knowing what he got me. I waited to open it until last. I figured it was a huge box with money hidden inside, since he doesn't usually shop for me.

I opened the box. I couldn't believe it. Remember when I told you about our annual tradition of shopping for ornaments? This year Mr Farmer went with us. And he listened to me as I pointed out cool things I'd like to have.

Let me take a break for a moment and tell you that Mr Farmer has no use for decorative or impractical things. He also doesn't like to spend money. So, when I walk through a place like that and point out items I'd like to have, I have no visions of ever owning them.

Back to my present. I opened the box and pulled away the paper and there it was. Something I would never have guessed Mr Farmer would ever, ever get me. I saw this and fell in love with it, but it was insanely expensive for what it was, so I knew I'd never own it.

Curious?

Here it is.

I love the fact that it is somewhat practical. I can always use a fan. But it's a metal rooster sculpture! The colors are gorgeous. I have it displayed where I can look at it from my chair and find myself just staring at it.

Mr Farmer really did an awesome job this year. Of course, he will think that means he's good for the next twenty years. But right now I'm ok with that.

What was your favorite gift or memory this year?