ThanksChristmasGiving 2011

Brock & I have been celebrating Christmas on Thanksgiving with his family since 1991. At that time, his parents were both still teaching, but had purchased a condo in Florida. They wanted to use their Christmas break each year to spend time at the condo, so the Reynolds (or at that time, the Devall) ThanksChristmasGiving was born. We would celebrate Christmas & Thanksgiving all in one, with both the traditional turkey dinner AND exchanging Christmas gifts. For years, we did this at Great Grandma Devall's house in Effingham, complete with Uncle Bob & Aunt Deb, Matt & Mark, Uncle Dave & Aunt Penny, Dave, Michael, Barbara, Rob, & Teresa.

Since then, spouses have been added and 6 great grandchildren have been born or adopted. In addition, Great Grandma Devall's health has declined. We no longer celebrate as an extended family. However, the three generations of Reynolds still get together, now in Mokena at Brock's brother Scott's house. Preston & Shaling had a great time playing with cousins Cooper & Chase, as well as opening gifts from Uncle Scott & Aunt Michelle and Grandma & Grandpa.

Preston & Shaling pose in front of the Christmas tree.



Chase selects a gift to open.


Cooper thinks about which gift to open next.


Shaling smiles for the camera.


Preston smiles for the camera.


Shaling shows off her new roller skates.


Preston shows off his Diary of a Wimpy Kid puzzle.


Brock & Scott show off their Cubs stocking hats.


The Reynolds clan - Bill & Nancy, Brock & Amy, Scott & Michelle, Preston, Shaling, Cooper, Chase



Dad & Shaling chill out.



Videos (don't forget, these don't show up via email -- come out to the blog to view them):

Shaling opens a present.


Preston opens a present.