Brinkerhoff Family Christmas Party!!

We started this tradition 100 years ago--well almost!! We all get together and have our little Christmas celebration together as a BIG FAMILY. Mom and Dad always put on a GREAT party! We have had it up to the church the last several years because we out grew Grandma's basement--way too many 'short' people running around in a limited amount of space, so the church works great so the kids just hang out in the gym and run wild!!! It is a fun time--we eat-of course, Mom ALWAYS puts on a yummy dinner with LOTS of snacks for the rest of the party. EVERYONE loves to eat of course!! We then listen to the Nativity. We began by acting it out many years ago, but now with so many kids and so few of parts, we just listen to it now. Then each family shares a talent they have. Sherri did a fun reading this year (the right & left game with everyone passing treats). Jessica and Nicole played a pretty song on the piano. Megan clogged several numbers--she is awesome!! Brittney, Morgan, Lindsey, Colby, Tyler, Brandon, and Kara sang "I Am a Child of God" and also "Jingle Bells." Robert and our family combined our 'talents!" It is always fun to see what people come up with. Then we play the White Elephant Game--always very entertaining with 40 people!! It is fun to watch the kids' expressions when they open a goofy present. Then each year each of the grandkids draw names and then exchange presents-the kids love that! Then as siblings, we do the same thing--and we give each other our presents at this little wing ding. This year Sherri had John, Richard had Robert, John had Carol, Robert had Mary, Carol had Sherri, and I had Richard. (now next year when we are trying to remember who has who--I can look here) Anyway, then Grandma arranges for SANTA to come--the kids LOVE that of course!! Santa brings a present for each grandkid--thanks Grandma & Grandpa--you guys really are amazing!! He calls each kid up there and they sit on his lap whether they are smiling or not--Kara and Corey were NOT smiling this year!! He gives them each a present and we take pictures of course!! Then we just hang out and visit--it is a very full few hours but it is A LOT of fun! It is neat for the grandkids to hang out with each other and of course the adults love to get together and just chat--yes, Brinkerhoffs like to visit!! It is a very LOUD, fun filled party!!! THANK YOU MOM & DAD--it is a lot of work for you guys but it is GREATLY APPRECIATED!!! WE LOVE YOU!!!