Christmas at the Lone Hawk Ranch

We did Christmas with my family on the 26th at my aunt and uncle's "ranch" in Dickinson.  I don't think it qualifies as an actual ranch, but that's what everyone calls it.  They actually live in a patio home in League City, but my aunt wanted some land to eventually get horses.  They bought about 2 acres with an old house on it and they've completely redone the house over the past year or so.  It looks really great!  They are officially going to name it the "Lone Hawk Ranch" in memory of Josh.  The group he was with at Ft. Campbell went by the name "Hawk Recon" so that's where they got that from.  We had a great time, but I don't think it will ever feel normal to not have Josh there with us.  It's weird how a happy time can simultaneously be a sad time.

Last year, we did a Mexican food spread and this year we did "soul food" - ha!  We had fried chicken, brisket, okra, corn casserole, rolls....and a bunch of other stuff I can't think of at the moment.  The kitchen was filled with food!  The adults draw names and exchange gifts that way and then everyone buys for the kids.  Caleb and Aubrey were really spoiled this year!  And as always, Caleb had a blast playing with his cousins (Jake, 12 and Luke, 6).  Even though they are much older, they do a good job playing with him.

Aubrey and Aunt Stephanie

The Boys - Jake, Luke and Caleb

The adult adults  :-)

Waiting patiently to open gifts!

Umm...an autographed picture of.....the Swamp People, I think. 
They have a TV show that Jake & Luke like.

Caleb helped Aubrey open her gifts.

One of several tear-jerking moments.  Mom made Aubrey a little purse out of a pair of Uncle Josh's blue jeans.  It is really cute and so special!

We got Luke some stacking cups

Aubrey's first Cabbage Patch doll...from Granny & Grandpa.

Luke and his Reveille pillow pet

Aunt Courtney got Caleb a wooden train track starter set

Another tear jerker....Mom made all three boys drawstring backpacks from Josh's uniforms!

He had to bring his blower!

The men (and Jackie - ha!) sitting around talking about guns

The stacking cups game was a hit!

Caleb eating....you guessed it - Granny's Party Mix!! 
This was at almost 8pm and he was amped up!