Our Adventures in noTTafarm Forest: Christmas 2013 ~ In Pictures

Now that all of the Christmas hub-bub has come and gone, I'm sure you are anxious for entertainment. Not one to disappoint, I've collected a few snapshots of our Ward and Camp family Christmas celebrations for your viewing pleasure. Please enjoy:

Ward Family ~ Kearney ~ December 21/22

Though we missed Tyler and Nick's families, we made the best of our early holiday. Lots of cookies and yummy food plus a day of chopping firewood, of course.

Karli was a super good helper on Saturday, helping prepare the traditional chicken noodle and oyster soups. She even brought along homemade pfeffernusse cookies that were absolutely delish!

Mom and Dad's Christmas tree, laden with presents.

Lauren Jo usually had at least two screens plus her hands in front of her face. How she made it through a weekend with her "lame" family all around is beyond me.

At least I got one good photo of sisters Chelsie and Lauren.

Miracle, the Cat

If they're not out chopping down trees or driving the tractor/4-wheeler/Arctic Cat, you'll find most Ward boys in front of the TV in the basement.

Karolyn prepares Sunday's relishes, sneaking some spicy pickled green beans onto the tray.

Super good helper, Karli, did a fine job of setting the table for 15 guests on Sunday.

Alan and his three babies: Joe, Lauren, and Chelsie

The three granddaughters received pendants from Gramma. Alan got to pose within the group photo.

Mom and Dad Ward with their kids and spouses.

Camp Family ~ noTTafarm U.S.A. ~ December 25

Holidays are guaranteed to be fun if Sophie is in attendance.

Who wouldn't love spending time with a precocious 5 year-old redhead?

We served brunch on Christmas day for a total of 13 guests.

The beautiful sunshine made the dining area all the more cozy.

Andrew enlisted Sophie to help distribute presents.

Andrew may or may not have distilled his own version of moonshine for his brothers. Pete was anxious to try it but is going to wait until his pneumonia medication has run its course.

General chaos as the presents are opened!

Katie was happy to see her old friend, Wilson.

When she adopted him from the Humane Society in Denver, he was so tiny, he could fit in her hand. Hard to imagine our 20-pounder being a little kitten! Sophie's new "Pete the Cat" toy and book were big hits.

The Camp Kids: Katie and her Alessio, Pat and his Kathleen, Andrew, Pete and his Sophie.

Pat and Kathleen have finally chosen a venue for their wedding ceremony. Kathleen has her heart set on a rustic country setting. Hint: we'll have more to blog about this summer!