We lost the pink monkey

 I can't say anything went as planned as we had planned for Christmas. Yes, just brunch.

I had to sausage started on the stove and I got a text from one family member saying they were running late with what they were baking. Next, a text that somebody was on call at the apartment complex and it snowed and they couldn't make it. Meanwhile, the niece said she'd been up all night and felt awful sick (actually, I don't think she wanted to drive in the snow). Later one dropped in just as I was getting the biscuits out of the oven. We had coffee and just chilled as the snow fell.

Finally, (almost eleven) the youngest showed up and they had the cutest pies that were kind of like a pop tart but filled with cranberry and apple filling. So yummy! And we snacked a bit more. Drank more coffee. Actually, I drank hot tea. Then we opened a few presents, and they were gone by noon. 

Just when I had everything put away, I got a text after one in the afternoon saying "We're on our way!" Of course, when they got here, the adults were starving, but the kiddos wanted to open presents. So they did.

 Naturally, they wanted to get out every little thing. Before we knew it, someone was asking where his room was. I didn't realize he felt that way about the box room I had made before at Thanksgiving. So they set up their own little apartments. Next thing I know, "We need another Ken!" Of course, he got blue-haired Ken and Wheelchair Ken. 

BUT...I had neglected to get a Ken doll for her. After all, there was her Chelsea along with the made-to-move Teacher Barbie and a BTS boyband doll. 

Finally, they made time for chicken nuggets and tacos, but they were back at their Barbie stories before we knew it. And then she lost the pink monkey. Oh, we took the couch apart and so much more. We never did find it. It was a lot like the time she swore she had a unicorn and we took it away from her. This was after she's had a nap. She cried and cried. But not this time. Still, she had everyone looking for this tiny pink plastic thing for a doll. Still haven't found it.