Mike's family's party

We had a nice family party with Mike's parents, sisters and their families a couple of days before Christmas. We had a delicious dinner and then games, the kids acted out the nativity, and then we played pipes with spoons. I think the kids really liked doing that. Then they got to open presents from their cousins and Grandma and Grandpa. It was a very fun night.

Sunday before Christmas

I wanted to get a picture of the kids in their new clothes. I had to take it after church, because we're always in such a big hurry before. Anyway, Taylor was not being very cooperative. I'm sure he was tired of being good for 3 hours and hungry. So, this was the best I could get.

O Come All Ye Faithful

For our ward Christmas party, Taylor was asked to be a shepherd in the Natvity. All the kids did such a great job. And the costumes were darling...I have to find out where those came from.

Christmas Dance Recital

In the Fall Gretchen started her new dance class...clogging! It was fun to see her perform in the Christmas Recital. Her performance was to the song, Frosty the Snowman.

Our Gingerbread house

For a family night activity in December, we decorated a gingerbread house. The kids ate more candy than made it onto the house I think. We had fun, though.

What's your favorite Christmas decoration?

Carrie tagged me and I thought this was a fun idea. Here's what you're supposed to do: take a picture of your favorite Christmas decoration and tell why it's your favorite. It could be that big Nativity in your yard or just a single beautiful ornament. Whatever it is, I want to hear about it :) Include any fun traditions or anything else that you want.

It is hard to pick just one, so first off, I love our stockings. My stocking is the one I had as a kid, that my mom made for us. Then when I got married she made one for Mike and then with each baby born, she made another stocking. I think they are so cute and individual. I love hanging them up each year.

This is my other favorite, our Nativity set. It is by Jim Shore
part of his Heartwood Creek collection. My parents-in-law have given us pieces to the set over the last few years. I love the bright colors and the Angel that is looking on from above.

I'll tag anyone who would like to share their favorite decorations. If you do post something, leave me a comment and I'll be sure to take a look.

Mom's family party

On Dec. 6 we got together with my Mom's side of the family for another fun Christmas party. We played lots of fun games: Christmas bingo, a relay race where we had to unwrap hershey kisses with oven mitts on, Christmas song pictionary, and decorate Grandpa as a Santa (pictures below). We also had a nice lunch and opened lots of fun presents.

Dad's family Christmas party

On Nov. 29 we had our annual Christmas party with my Dad's side of the family. We had a yummy breakfast, crafts for the kids and the guys played basketball, and a special visitor came as a surprise!

Gretchen and her cute nephew Briggs

Santa was so fun! The kids and all of their cousins. If you look closely you can see their Grandpa and Aunt also had a turn on Santa's knee.

December scripture study

December is a great time to really focus your family scripture study on Christ's life. I did a little search online and found this site that has a schedule for scriptures to read for each day leading up to Christmas in December. I wanted to share it for anyone who might be interested. We started tonight with day 1 and 2 and had some great discussion already.

Happy Bday Dad!

We got together Monday night for my Dad's birthday, which is Dec 1. Growing up, we could never put up Christmas decorations until after my Dad's birthday. He is such a great Dad and Grandpa, too! Happy Birthday, Dad!

Thanksgiving 2008

This year it was our turn to have Thanksgiving with Mike's family. We had a very nice dinner up at his parents' house in Midway. I made rolls, mashed potatoes, and a hot crab dip served with crackers to contribute to the feast. Mike's mom also asked me to be in charge of the place cards. You'll see my place card at the top of the page, "Blogger". Gretchen was "Artist", Mike "Golfer", Taylor "Sports Guy", Dylan "Puzzleman". The kids had fun walking around and trying to find their seat and their place card. Mike's sister and her family from Seattle were visiting, which was fun because we don't get to see them very often. All the food was delicious and it was fun to visit and catch up with everyone!