Christmas-Big Family Style

 Four cousins, all born within a few months of each other.  We have been taking pictures of these four since they were all on the inside of the mothers.  They are all getting so big, but still enjoy spending time together.

 This year the M. family party was held at Joel's brother Neil's (sitting on the floor in gray) home.  It was a full house, there were about fifty people there, the blessing and challenge of a large family growing every year.

 A new fiance, a new great-grandchild and lots of kids that are not kids anymore made the family white elephant game a long, and fun process.  This was Nate's first year to participate.

Not too thrilled with his gift of an ugly candle and holder, which we have seen at several other Christmases past.  Nate tried to leave it behind for Aunt Laura to add to her holiday collections, but she found it, and made him take it home. :)

Each year Joel's family gets together for a big party before Christmas.  There is always lots of food, and fun and fellowship.  The little ones played BINGO and watched a movie in the basement, Luke wandered around with a cookie in hand most of the night, and I enjoyed talking with my sister-in-laws. 

Please continue to join us in praying for Kevin ( he is seated beside his big brother in one of the photos above, the cute little boy with the bald head).  He is having a week of chemotherapy treatment this week with a new drug with severe, long term side effects.  Can you pray that he WON'T have these side effects?  He is also running a fever today (Weds.) please pray for our nephew.  He is much loved.