A Christmas Greeting From the Bakkers

It was tough, but somebody had to do it.  Two of my sisters live in Florida, and they requested some Christmas holiday cheer.  We drove straight down I-95 and invaded their homes with our noisy presence.  For two weeks, there was a constant drone of joyful cousin play, a constant hum of sisterly chatter, and a constant need to cook up more food.  Thanks to both families for hosting us so well!  It was totally delightful! 

On Christmas morning, we slipped away for a while so that everyone could enjoy some personal gift-opening time with their own families.  We went to the beach!  Why not celebrate Christmas in the sand and sun!?

We set up a little spot for our own family gift exchange.....

Can you guess what was on Marijka's mind?

It was a fun place to open gifts!  We all had to grab the wrapping paper before it blew away....and sometimes shout at each other to be heard over the wind.  "Thanks, Aidan!  I love it!"  "What???"

The beach was quite empty, except for the birds.  These Royal Terns made us laugh.  They all lined up in the same direction, solemnly facing the wind.  Their feathers blew all around their faces, but they stood steady, undeterred and unmoved.

Well... unless there was a running Bakker who couldn't resist messing up their solemn gathering....

Jon and I had announced that we shouldn't be getting wet on this visit to the beach - our big Christmas Dinner gathering was coming up next.

Here Aidan and I are daring the waves to come splash us.

It may look like we're standing in very little water, but I tell you: those Atlantic waves mean business.  Yep.  As always, most of us got wet.  We arrived at our Christmas Dinner in need of clean clothes and a shower.

Merry Christmas!

Happy New Year!