Christmastime :)

We had a wonderful Christmas this year. I wish I had taken more pictures, but all the opening of gifts seemed to get in the way! Mom and Dad came up to join us and Sheila traveled over from her house in the morning. We started the morning with coffee and a Potato Basil Fritatta. It was delicious (an Ina Garten Recipe)

Erik and I received many wonderful gifts including a vacuum from Sheila. I have now vacuumed the entire first floor and underneath every possible piece of furniture. It has never looked so clean in here. I love having a clean house! Sheila also gave me a lovely sweater & jacket. The best gift from Sheila? The pasta boat! Just kidding ;) I got the NEATEST casserole carrier. I realize that last sentence probably makes me sound very domesticated, but I don't care; it is really cool.See how the casserole dish matches the exterior!? Cool, huh?

Mom gave Erik some great pizza making ingredients and metal pans that help crisp the crust. He was really excited to use it last night as he doesn't have to worry about sliding the pizza on to the pizza stone any longer. It worked perfectly. Mom gave me some a Praise Vocal Music & another music book that will come in handy when I have to sing solo's at church. I'm also very pleased by the gift of a teeth grinding night guard she gave me :) I've used it every night since Christmas and my jaw is much less tense.

Karl received wonderful books, cds and more from Mom & Dad, a set of lego's & talking kangaroo from Sheila, and an awesome sweater & hat set from Aunt Lele. I really love the hat.

Lee also knit me a gift! I got this awesome mustard yellow purse. The inside fabric is so 'me' & she included the leftovers :)

One of the best gifts, though, was purchased with gifts from Dad & Sheila. We were able to buy a new dishwasher! Hallelujah! Thanks to Erik for installing it yesterday. It works perfectly and my glasses are gleaming.

You'd think that was it, right? But no, there was so much more! Too much to list. Though, I do want to tell you that Erik gave me a wonderful pasta maker attachment for our kitchenaid. I am itching to make some homemade ravioli or lasagna with fresh noodles!

From my last post I mentioned that I had gotten a gift for Erik that requires a party. Here it is! A Beer & Chocolate Tasting Kit. It includes the chocolate and a guide for which beers to buy. I am looking forward to inviting Erik's friends over and giving him a fun night.

Karl is exhausted still thinking about presents. Merry Christmas!