Four Christmases

Who needs the movies when you can live out the excitement in real life?! .....

As always, we never get to spend as much time seeing everyone that we'd like but we did have a nice and somewhat relaxing time. I have to apologize - by wishing for the snow I think I cursed the entire state of Utah (and apparently most of the western states). Careful what you wish for!

We got in late Friday night and were off to begin the festivities on Saturday.

We had a lot of fun at the James family party. I'm really happy that we got to spend that last memorable and fun night with Grandpa. Every year we all get together and fill the cabin at the park in Aurora. This year Santa brought along Mrs. Clause and their little dog. Ashlyn was more fascinated with her shoe than the hairy old man she was sitting on.

At least she didn't cry!

There are five little girls between my siblings and I. It was so cute to have them all together.

Looks like I have a little competition with Mrs. Clause!

Afterward we went back to my mom's where her whole family had dinner and played games. It was nice to see them even if for a short time.

On Sunday, my Dad and Virginia had a great dinner planned. Lots of fabulous Christmas food - somehow it's much more enjoyable when you're not the one cooking it.

Later that day we discovered Sammy's Guitar Hero.......

I can't believe what we've been missing out on all this time. We were up half the night and let's just say .....well, I know what's on my wish list for next year!

We woke up Monday to a huge white out and were stuck inside for most the day. Taylor, Brentlee, and I got in lots of pool and play time.

The next day Derek and my Dad got in some target practice. Meanwhile, Ashlyn and I had a fun lunch with Uncle Morgan - mmmmm......El Mexicano. There seems to be a theme with me and food going on here, eh?

Wednesday - Christmas Eve! Back up to Salt Lake we went to spend the second half of our week with Derek's family. Another wonderful dinner by his mom - yumm..... Then each of the kids (our other four nieces & two nephews) could hardly wait to open their first present before going to bed.

Ashlyn was so wore out that she slept right through all the excitement. (note the added touch of Lucky Charms marshmallow stains on her new shirt)

Of course, the boxes proved to be the best gifts of all...

We got to visit with a few friends, spend time with Derek's sisters, drive in several snow storms, and get very spoiled. Then it was time to come back home. Going from the snow & cold and coming to 70 degree weather in a matter of hours was a bit shocking to the system. I never, ever thought I would miss the cold and change of seasons as much as I have the last couple months.

We ended our week long Christmas tour Sunday night by opening the gifts we'd left for each other here at home. It took Ash about a half hour to realize where we were. Then she got so excited she was bouncing off the walls hyper for another half hour.

Santa brought this ride on/push along train. Mom and Dad think it's pretty great - the verdict's still out with her. If it's a toy and we give it to her, she could care less. EVERYTHING that she's not supposed to have is much more interesting.

One day we'll get an actual video camera. For now, the dark clips from the digital camera will have to do.

Of course we brought home a couple of colds and lots of stuff to put away. It's a week later and we're just starting to function normally again. Guess my procrastination has paid off 'cause with part of the stuff still in bags, it makes packing to come back up to UT for a few days this week a little easier :)

Hope you all had a wonderful holiday and are as excited to start the new year as I am!