I told my wife not to go all out stupid on me this year. She has a tendency to go over the top. Well, she DID go over the top for our kids and her nephew who is with us. Seeing them was plenty. I gave my Dad a working double barrel for his mantle. He has wanted one and shopped for them, but would just never commit to spending the money on one. I know he would have NEVER spent the money on one so I did it for him. The bear hug he gave me said it all. Not that we don't hug, but sometimes that extra tight squeeze where they hang onto the hug for an extra couple seconds says more than words ever could.
As for me, well, I got more than I deserved in the reactions of my wife, kids, and Dad this year. I tried to make my Cabelas Wish list not so "wanting". Tried to go more practical. $10 Drury DVD, Hunters Specialties rattle bag/True Talker II combo for $15, and some cheaper gifts this year. I did put the Caldwell Lead Sled on there as well just in case she felt like spending a bit more. She did. Got the Lead Sled, True Talker II, AND some slippers/lounge pants (not cabelas), as well as a gift card for Cabelas from my parents, a 1/4 zip mock turtle neck pullover from my sister in Max4 camo, and several other gifts from various family members. The usual gift cards to go out to dinner, some Rocky base layers I had asked for, and various smaller gifts. All in all, I am very blessed and didn't deserve all I got but I am thankful for them. I am happy living he life we live. We ate like kings. Our house is warm. Our vehicles are dependable. Nothing is really over the top, but we have what we NEED.
Watched the kids in the church Christmas program. Felt like a roadkilled and bloated raccoon in the middle of the summer last night after eating all day. Now I am getting the kids tucked in and letting the sweeper truck warm up. I am going to go out and work tonight to give one of the guys the night off. It will feel good to be out working knowing my family is at home, warm, safe, healthy, and happy while I am putting bread on the table.