Christmas Time with the Spragues

My heart always feels calm when I am at my childhood home! It is just hard to beat being around your parents, that pamper you and take care of so many things for you - just so you can relax. Our family had a blast with Mimi and Pap this break. We were able to spend a lot of time during the second week of our stay with them. The kids especially love playing in the basement, having Mimi read them stories, and watching movies with Papa. 

Hang Out Time

 

Even though we missed the game, we can still rock the gear! Go Mizzou! 

Christmas Day

Such a fun morning with many great traditions. 

Who is more excited for Legos...Uncle Kevin or Mack?

Yep, that's my brother. 

She asked for it....and got it! 

Matching gifts! 

I love this picece....and John made it!!!!

Daddy is hard at work! 

Loving the train set! 

Sprague Dinner at Alex and Kevin's House 

This was by far one of our favorite nights of the break as we got to just chill and hang out. 

We went for a walk. 

We played. 

We checked out the new Alex-fied place. 

We ate. 

We decorated cookies. 

We just relaxed and enjoyed each other. 

Total success. Thanks for hosting! 

Kids Playing Chase and Capture 

Christmas Time with Grandpa and Mema

Another great visit we had took place at Grandpa and Mema's house. There is so much to explore at their house between Justin's old toys in the basement and the big "toys" in the garage, the kids love being there! 

Christmas Eve Fun

 

Schlottach Christmas 

These boys have so much fun together! 

Grandpa gets the "famous" drink! 

Doesn't everyone do a piñata for Christmas? Instead of a cousin gift exchange, we decided to stuff little goodies (My Little Pony minis and Monster Trucks) into a piñata and let the kids have a fun little experience. It was a way bigger hit than any of us predicted and I think it is our new annual tradition! 

Brandt Christmas 

How cute are these girls???

Update:

These are now hard pictures to look at as our dear Earl passed away on January 3rd. He was a multi-talented man that offered so many fun stories and delicious meals to our family events. He was a joy to be around and had a smile that made you melt. We were so heart broken to hear the news of his heart attack and our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Joanie and the rest of Justin's family. It was hard to not be around you all to celebrate his life. We will cherish our memories of him, especially this Christmas as we explored his shed and watched the joy on his face as the kids played in his Jeep. To an incredible man that will be greatly missed - cheers!