Christmas 2015

 When we got in, it was strangely warm (in the low 50's) so we spent a lot of time swinging in the backyard.

"Grandma lets me climb on the table!"

Rosie helped roll truffles.

 Grinch popcorn

Jared rock climbed. He is getting brave!

Melted crayon ornaments

A few days later and a few days colder, Joe invited us to a polar bear plunge. As soon as we walked over to the lake, Peter jumped in before he could psych himself out of it!

 The rest of the stupid brave!

Adrenalin high!

None of the kids fell in thankfully!

 Jared was a shepherd

Rosie was Mary and Peter was the Donkey

 Christmas morning

These two stayed when the others ran for their presents! Ha!

Silly version of the family picture

Eight grandchildren (and one on the way)

Gingerbread houses

Family Talent Show

They love their Grandpa!

It finally snowed!

Norah's first sled ride!

And it was a merry Christmas, indeed!

Advent

Following our German heritage, we celebrate advent in our family. On the four Sundays before Christmas we light candles and sing carols to anticipate Christmas day. It is one of my favorite times during the season. Seeing my children's faces in the candle light, excited about the songs. It makes my heart soar!

A Night in Bethlehem

We had a great ward Christmas party!

Lasers!!!!!!!

We are fairly low key when it comes to holiday decorating. I don't think we'll ever be the people with garlands, inflatables and lights on every eave. So these laser lights (Star Shower Laser Lights- As Seen on TV) were a good middle ground for us. Pizzazz, but without the set up time!

Broccoli Pizza

After watching Inside Out, the kids wanted to try Broccoli Pizza.

When the kids request vegetables, you acquiesce!

It was a hit! We used this recipe, and definitely make it again.

Ken's beard

Two words I don't often put together!

I've often wondered what he looked like with a beard. So after knowing and loving him for a decade, I thought it was time to find out. Usually Ken is pretty militant about shaving, so it was a nice change for the month of November. He was nervous about it, so it helped that he was in Brazil for the first two weeks.

While it isn't a permanent addition to his look, I think he looks handsome!

First Snow

We haven't seen snow since the day we moved here at the beginning of the year! I just love how it covers everything with a white blanket. Beautiful!

Lots of helpers with shoveling

Norah really enjoyed digging in and flailing around in the snow. Until her mittens got wet, of course!

The snow around here doesn't usually last longer than a couple of days, so we've  got to enjoy it while we can.