Some Assembly Required

Our Christmas miracle this season was being lucky enough to have Tim's brother Mike spend the night with us Christmas Eve... he was on hand for the three and a half hour assembly of Joey and Clara's big present from Santa, a play kitchen. Yes, I said three and a half hours. They were well stocked with beers, but still, by the time the last burner was in place, and the last screw had found a home, it was past midnight.

The bleary-eyed elves:





The final product, apparently none the worse for being exposed to mild swearing and threats against its manufacturer.



The irony? On Christmas morning, it took the kids at least 5 full minutes to realize it was even in the room. Here they are, oblivious to the hulking culinary toy directly to their right, enjoying their tea set and fire truck.







At last, Joey saw it, and shouted, "Clara, there's your kitchen! I think Santa said we can share it!"





While Clara set to work on pancakes, Joey tried out some ninja moves sporting his new watch, also from Santa.

We may not have gotten much rest this Christmas, but it gets more and more fun -- and magical -- to witness Christmas through our kids' eyes! Hope everyone else's holiday was as fun! Merry Christmas!