Happy Birthday, Jesus!

Wow…where does time go?  Here it is Christmas Day. Happy Birthday, Jesus!

Caleb arrived from Arizona on Saturday morning, we enjoyed the day by eating, playing games, plus walking and throwing a Frisbee at Bond Park where Keegan and Amy will be married on June 22, 2013!!!  Woo Hoo! Amy was back for the weekend so was able to join us. She and her mom are busy making lots of wedding plans during the Christmas break while Amy doesn't have to think about college studies. :-) 

Sunday morning Caleb fixed a yummy breakfast while the rest of us un-decorated the apartment and then we joined Grace Community Church at the Lake Johnson clubhouse and were greatly blessed by wonderful singing and Berk’s sermon about real peace that Jesus gives, that the world cannot give or take away. I love being in a small room with folks singing their hearts out in praise to and joy in The Lord!  After the guys & Amy went shopping and we all packed, Amy headed to Charlotte and we headed to Virginia to spend Christmas at the farm with my folks.  Yesterday, Mike was super anxious and hyper.  Caleb and Keegan took him to town to see the large train display at Bevell's hardware, walk, and buy steaks so Daddy could grill his famous steaks for supper.  (They were delicious!)  

Today I decided to try NOT giving Mike his morning Amantadine to see if it would make a difference and he was so much calmer today!  Yay!!  Dr. Gualtieri had cut him down to 1 instead of 2 per day, but maybe none is best.  We'll see how it goes.  Mike and I joined Mom and Dad for devotions, took a walk, and then we all opened our gifts and stockings.  Mike's big gift was an iPad. Keegan and I had downloaded a few free games to see if it would be something he would enjoy playing, and he did!  He played "Simon Says", "Animal Puzzles", "Match Blitz", "Logo's quiz", "Fruit Ninja", etc.  The kids gave him the board game "Blokus" and we played that also.  My niece, Erin, prepared a brunch feast for everyone at 11 at Hugh and Tracey's house which was delicious. Their house looks so pretty all decorated for Christmas and it was fun being a part of their tradition.  We would usually be in Ohio for Christmas and, of course, miss being with the Rice side of the family, but felt this was best for Mike at this point. Mike spent most of the afternoon watching basketball with Caleb. Caleb took good care of him, feeding him lots of snacks and things to drink.  I think Mike ate almost the entire afternoon and started looking for supper about 4pm.  He really was so much calmer and relaxed today, I hope this continues.

Have lots more to tell you about what's going on with Mike, but want to get to bed. I'll try to get back on here soon to fill you in.  

What a joyous and most blessed remembrance & celebration today is.  Jesus Christ, God's son, was born to the virgin, Mary. God's perfect son, our Savior and Lord.  Thank you, God. Thank you, Jesus.

Caleb gave himself and Keegan Lego watches. 

Still kids at heart. :-)

The boys and Amy gave Mike a new game.

It's been quite a hit with everyone.

Mom and Dad - stocking time!

The Gingerbread House that Mike built.

Merry Christmas, everyone!