Christmas Vacation ~ Day 2

On Christmas Day, we gave each of the kids three strips of paper with the instructions to

write down one movie they wanted to watch as a family, one restaurant they wanted to eat

at as a family and one activity they wanted to do all together. When all eighteen strips were
filled out, we hung them on the wall and worked hard (or rather played hard) all week
to make them happen. It was one of our favorite weeks of the year, hands down.

Day two brought breakfast at Kneaders (yum on the French toast), Jacob and the older
kids going to the movie Doctor Strange and all of us spending a couple of hours playing
racquetball. I was shocked at how much I loved playing and told Jacob I thought he and I
should go and play more often. It was fun stuff. And the kids didn't mind it at all either.

The boys started off with a game of four.

The court next to us was empty for quite a while and made a fabulous space for the youngest to run and run.

When I went back for more pictures of the boys, Matt graced me with this lovely one.

Meanwhile, tag had begun next door.

And finally, a switch of those using the racquets. Apparently the power went to Grace's head.

Nate took getting the ball seriously. Look at that vertical.

All of the kids were really good at it. It made me happy to watch them.

Sweet Nate loved it so much he would stand outside the door, just waiting for his turn.

Fun and competition all in one afternoon. We loved it.

Christmas Vacation ~ Day 1

On Christmas Day, we gave each of the kids three strips of paper with the instructions to

write down one movie they wanted to watch as a family, one restaurant they wanted to eat

at as a family and one activity they wanted to do all together. When all eighteen strips were
filled out, we hung them on the wall and worked hard (or rather played hard) all week
to make them happen. It was one of our favorite weeks of the year, hands down.

Day one included horseback riding, dinner at Texas Roadhouse and two movies (Wild Hearts
Can't Be Broken and The Maze Runner). The littles didn't stay up for the second movie, but sure
enjoyed the first one. It was a truly fun day. And I have pictures to prove it. Shocking yes?

Annie picked a great activity. And worked hard to get the horses ready.

This little boy fell in love with one of the barn cats.

While this man-child decided using one of the cats to play Lion King was a good idea.

Campbell's first time on a horse. He did great.

And Matt's first time on a horse. He also did really well.

Nate and Grace with their fabulous dad.

 I didn't get anything good of Annie since she was riding so fast and all I had was my phone camera .

I really love this guy. And he is super handsome.

These cute ones loved getting their own ride together with Annie leading.

And this horse expert did awesome as usual. We all loved watching him ride.

Jacob and Annie putting the horses back.

And indulging me with a final picture. Because look at that sunset.

And yes, I was there and yes, I rode and yes, I loved it. A lot. Really a lot.

Glory to the newborn King!

Hail the heav'n-born Prince of Peace! Hail the Son of Righteousness!
Light and life to all He brings,  ris'n with healing in his wings.
Mild He lays his glory by, born that man no more may die;
born to raise the sons of earth, born to give them second birth.
Hark! the herald angels sing, Glory to the newborn King!

Christmas Eve

A very Merry Christmas from these darlings!

Eighteen years

Being married three days before Christmas, I've sometimes received sympathy
from others about trying to celebrate an anniversary during such a busy time of the
year. I get it, but truly wouldn't trade it for anything. Because the Christmas season
reminds me of the two greatest gifts my Heavenly Father has ever given me.
His Son, my Savior, Jesus Christ. And the absolute love of my life, Jacob Allen.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas!

With gratitude for each of you and your friendship, for these lovelies I get to call mine
and mostly, for my Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ. This Christmas season, I rejoice
that He was born, lived a perfect life, atoned for my imperfect self and died that
I might live. He is why I get to keep trying. He is why I want to keep trying.

A very Merry Christmas to each of you!

Their anniversary

Fifty years ago this very day. I am grateful to the deepest part of my
heart that they never gave up on us or on each other. I'm so blessed
to be called their daughter and love these parents of mine very much.

Gracie girl

I just really love this little sweetheart.

A field trip with Matt boy

Two years ago, I went on a field trip with Annie when she was a 7th grader.
Tonight, I was able to go on the same field trip with Matt. And I loved it.

Matt and his two buddies. These boys were super funny.

And Matt being his shy self.

I really adore this boy. A lot.

Our seats weren't too sad.

And my attempt at getting one more picture of the boys. Help me Rhonda.

Visiting those we love

One of the top reasons I am grateful to live where we do, is because it is possible to visit
our grandparents and spend time with them. For many years, that wasn't the case and we
didn't live near any of our grandparents. Yesterday, we took some time with Jacob's
grandmas and we really loved it. They are amazing and good and oh so kind to us.

Mitchell the goose

Anyone else have a goose strolling through their backyard.
And trying to attack their son on occasion? Just us? Okay then.

Look at our poor chickens lined up and wondering what in the world is happening.

This man. I adore him to the deepest part of my heart and yet, sometimes what he does drives
me nutty. Like trying to be friends with an attack goose. Who, I have since learned, has
tortured/gone after many a neighbor. Of course the goose likes Jacob. Everyone likes Jacob.
It would have eaten the skin off my shins before I could say "I'm Jacob Allen's wife!"

PS. Matt named the goose. He likes to name things.

Define us

"Being a refugee may be a defining moment in the lives of those who are refugees,
but being a refugee does not define them...but our response will help define us."

~Elder Patrick Kearon

I watched this video a few moments ago and just sobbed.
I love it so much. As well as the incredible talk that inspired it.

Time together

We took tonight and went out to dinner and then spent some time outside on the grounds
of the temple. Even with the craziness that comes with six darling chicklets, I'm just
so grateful. As we were driving home, we all began singing along to O Holy Night
and my insides felt all soft and melty. I have a beautiful, wild, crazy, wonderful life.

Tonight

Every year my parents have been in the country, they have hosted individual Christmas
parties for each of the kids and their families. Several times, my mom came to our home
when we were living far away and held a party for us. It is one of our favorite memories
of the whole year. And when I walked in tonight and saw how my mom had their home
decorated for Christmas and the table set for the party, I was blown away. Every year I
see it and it still amazes me with its incredible beauty. It was a really wonderful night.

Christmas dance

I just really, really love this boy. And that gorgeous girl he is with
is absolutely darling in every way. What a fun night for the Christmas dance.