This year David was on call during the holidays, so I ventured off to St. Louis without him. My whole family flew in minus my hubby and another brother-in-law. It was wonderful (not the part where two son-in-laws were missing).
It is harder and harder to get everyone together since we are spread out and have our own little families, so this was a real treat. And, to make the situation even more spectacular, my youngest sister, Ashley, went through the temple. When we were standing in the temple all together as a family, my heart was full. One of the greatest purposes of this life is to live our lives worthy to be together as a family for eternity. On a lighter note, I was reminded of why my mom and I were often separated during church when I was growing up. For some reason, the two of us can not sit next to each other and be reverent. I nonchalantly pointed something out to my mom while at the temple that sent her into hysterics with me quickly following. I don't think I have ever fought so hard to keep myself from laughing out loud.
The week before Christmas, we kept busy entertaining 7 little kiddos, or possibly it was the other way around.
Science Center
Lone Elk Park- saw Santa's reindeer the day before Christmas.
Magic House- Loved this place. Why wasn't this around when I was a kid?
Decorated a gingerbread house (although most of the candy might have been ingested prior to making it on the house.)
My nephews could have spent hours in the basement making forts, playing hide and go seek and collecting treasure chests. They asked Mimi why she had so many treasure chests.
We had a visit from Aunt Ginny, Aunt Barb and Uncle Larry
Got to eat my favorite pizza at Uno's.
Ate lots of Christmas goodies: Homemade caramels & white fudge.
Enjoyed a non-traditional Christmas Eve dinner, Bethlehem style.
The kiddos did a live nativity. The angel unfortunately had to slip out early due to illness and Jesus only stayed awhile because it was past his bedtime.
Thanks Mom and Dad for letting us ALL stay at your house and for making it a memorable Christmas! I can't wait to do it again.
