We watched a few Christmas movies, read some books, and we made gingerbread houses at grandma Verna's house. It has become a fun tradition. Brynlee worked with her dad, Anna made one with Alesha, and Kyla and I just decorated a christmas tree. Kyla worked really hard putting candy on that tree. After each piece of candy was placed on it she would raise her hands in the air and yell "ta da." It was a fun day for us. I am glad Joel was able to take some time away from building the house to do that with us.
Bryn had a Christmas party at school that I got to go and help with and the kids decorated Sugar cones to make them look like Christmas trees. It was fun to go and help out in the classroom.
My girl's got to sit on Santa's lap a total of three times. We went to the public library and Brynlee and Anna were super excited to see Santa. Especially Annalyn. She was sure to wear her Christmas dress and she sat on his lap with the hugest grin. Kyla only got close enough to grab the candy cane out of Santa's hand and that was it. Annalyn got her picture with Santa put in the small community newspaper and Brynlee has been really jealous ever since. She just can't understand why they didn't want a picture with her. Haha.
The girls and I went to the ward party for our new ward and we enjoyed good food and another chance for Brynlee and Anna to sit on Santa's lap. Brynlee ran up really fast so I didn't get a picture of her while Anna would not wait in line so I had to wait with her. This time Annalyn melted into Santa's lap and gave him the biggest hug. Kyla refused to get close and I didn't push her. At our ward party Brynlee got to be in a little play they did. She dressed up as a little doll with three of her good friends and they got to march up on the stage. Everyone sang together at the end. Santa came at the end of the party so Brynlee and Annalyn both got another chance to sit on his lap. Brynlee told him she wanted Shopkins while Annalyn wanted an Anna and Elsa polly pocket.
On Christmas eve we went Christmas caroling with Joel's family after we ate our traditional Christmas eve taco diner. My girls sure enjoy singing with the family. Grandma Hirtle had a few presents for the kids to open when we got back from caroling. Then we had to hurry home and get to bed so Santa could come.
On Christmas day the girls all woke up around 6:30 and I went with them to watch them see what Santa got them. Bryn and Anna got new scooters while Kyla got a cute pink shopping cart. They rode their scooters around and ate candy until Joel woke up and we could eat breakfast. After reading the Christmas story and getting dressed we got to open presents. We didn't spend much money this year but the girls were still spoiled with lots of presents and they had a great day. Joel and I got a few things that we needed as well but we mostly just bought things for the kids. Our big present this year is our new house.
After we opened up presents we went to visit my family and we enjoyed a nice dinner and we got to play some games. My parents gave the girls a few more gifts and we had a lot of fun spending time with them. Eventually we left for a quick visit to see Joel's parents. We played one short game and then we headed home. It was a long fun day and we were all tired and very grateful for our Savior and for the time we got to spend with our family.




































































