Christmas 2016

 We had a wonderful Christmas again! On Christmas Eve we got together and had hors doeuvres and like always we had tons of food! So much food! I didn't get any pictures of us all together, but we had fun. Everyone left early due to bad weather and roads. So we all had the evenings to our selves.

 The jammies were a hit! They all loved them.

 I love waking up to happy giggles in the morning! They were all so excited! It goes by so quick!

 We did a lot of home made gifts this year. I think we will continue to do that every year.

 These babies were so cute!! I love how they turned out!

 She was so excited about her baby :)

 He was happy to have trains!

 Daniel got his ipod.

 He was so cute with the baby doll!

 Leah loved her jewelry hanger!

 The doll house was a hit.. they have played for hours in it!

 We redid this chest for Gracie. grandma painted it for us. Auntie Miah got one too.

 Daniel liked his trunk.

 William loves to help build the fire!

Feeling so blessed this holiday season. So grateful for many things! Merry Christmas everyone! Hoping the new year brings lots of good things!! 

School Christmas Program

 The kids always work so hard practicing for their program and it is work figuring out costumes, but we always enjoy it! The kids all did so great!

Santa

I didn't get a picture with all the kids and santa, but both the little boys did great with him.. William wasn't too sure, but he didn't panic while being next to him.  Our ward party was really nice! It was a night of music and very enjoyable!

A White Christmas

 As much as I dislike driving in the snow....it sure is beautiful!

I Heard The Bells on Christmas Day

My thoughts have been with my dad and brothers so much this year, but as Christmas is nearing, I am heart broken for them and their families! I can't stand the thought of them not being together and even worse, being locked up and missing the joy on their kids faces Christmas morning. I keep holding on the knowledge that the Lord is in control and he has a plan and it will all work out. But right now in the moment, I am so sad for them and wish so badly that they could be home. I love them and their examples and can't wait till I can hug them all! It will be a great day! I am grateful for the little miracles and blessings that come on a regular basis. Yesterday in church we sang the song "I heard the Bells on Christmas Day." The words hit me and I knew it was the Lord reminding me that it is going to work out :)  And I know it will!

1. 1. I heard the bells on Christmas day
   Their old familiar carols play,
   And wild and sweet the words repeat
   Of peace on earth, good will to men.
2. 2. I thought how, as the day had come,
   The belfries of all Christendom
   Had rolled along th'unbroken song
   Of peace on earth, good will to men.
3. 3. And in despair I bowed my head:
   "There is no peace on earth," I said,
   "For hate is strong and mocks the song
   Of peace on earth, good will to men."
4. 4. Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
   "God is not dead, nor doth he sleep;
   The wrong shall fail, the right prevail,
   With peace on earth, good will to men."
5. 5. Till, ringing, singing, on its way,
   The world revolved from night to day,
   A voice, a chime, a chant sublime,
   Of peace on earth, good will to men!

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

 Oh how I love this time of year!! The spirit and love that is in the air is wonderful!

 We have had lots of snow! Tis the season! It has also been super cold! -30C is close to -20F....so COLD!

 There is nothing like sitting in the evening by the fire and looking at the tree...it's one of my favorite things!

 The kids are always excited to decorate, pick out gifts, make cookies and gingerbread houses. We love it!!

 William loved helping me make the frosting :)

Mayzie had help from Papa

 Daniel made a Santa on his.

 Isa and Grandma did this one

Brandon joined us this year. He broke his hand and was pretty sore.

 So much fun and too much candy! Love them!

 Our town of Bethlehem.