The James Family

Our first Christmas in Brasil was as close to a Christmas back home as you can get. We had received our 2 shipments and were able to set up our tree and decorate the house. The hot weather only made the phrase "Warm Wishes" mean that much more. The days leading up to Christmas Asher was having a rough time with his behavior. He was convinced Santa was not coming for him. We started a reward chart where the kids had to fill their tree with ornaments. This completely turned Asher's attitude around and he prayed it wasn't too late to change Santa's mind. The last gift to come from behind the tree was the little dinosaur Asher had asked for. He was thrilled! He was also thrilled to receive a Nintendo DS from Nana and Papa Ron! Both kids were jumping for joy when they opened the art isle from Grammy and Granddad! Santa brought Chapel a yellow bear that she asked for which she immediately wrapped up like a baby and carried everywhere the rest of the day. Among their many gifts Santa brought a very special friend. The kids were presented with a white fluffy kitten. Asher covered his face with his hands and was speecheless fro a few moments when he finally asked,"Can we keep it?" The kitten has been a sweet addition to the family and we named her Natal, Christmas in Portuguese.

After our family celebrated with gifts our friends came over and celebrated with food. I prepared every dish from home I could think of. We spent the day eating and playing in the pool! It was great to have so many friends around...for all of us as I think we were all little homesick.