Snow Shovelers

Morgan and I had a fabulous time shoveling snow after a recent storm. She's such a good little helper that it made the job enjoyable!

On Christmas Day in the Morning

The kids seem to have the routine down now: On Christmas day in the morning, they excitedly jump out of bed to dump out the contents of their stockings. What time each does this is anyone'e guess, but they all know to eventually gather in Dad and Mom's room to share with each other what Santa brought. Then the processional begins: The march from the bedroom to the Christmas tree.

One thing for certain this Christmas has reinforced in my mind is that the best things in life aren't things. What can beat happiness together?

For sure, the kids are excited about the things they are getting, but it's the time together that makes it exciting. And afterward, the time we get to spend together with the new presents is truly special. Real gratification comes from seeing your kiddos figure this out. It's like realizing the Savior's birth is a magnificent occassion, but what He did with His life is divine.

It seems that Clayton will be very protective of his karate lessons!


The fun thing about Madison and Mackenzie this year is that they have arrived at the age when being cool starts to be important . . .

but the problem is it becomes so very difficult to contain themselves and keep that state of coolness. Thank goodness!

As you can see, we were blessed with a very Merry Christmas, and we hope you were, too! Happy New Year!

Our Christmas Eve Tradition

As Christmas approaches, more and more presents appear under the tree. On Christmas Eve, we take turns the presents to each other. This year, Grandma and Grandpa Besaw joined us for dinner and the gift exchange. I enjoy the gift exchange on Christmas Eve because the kids exhibit joy as they struggle to contain the giddiness they feel over giving. They are filled with hope that the recipient will like their present. On Christmas, when they get Santa's and Dad and Mom's presents, the "joy" is more exhilaration over getting the longed for present.


Morgan seems to really love her MyPod!

Christmas at Grandma and Grandpa Laurence's

Last night we had Christmas dinner at Grandma and Grandpa's house. Kevin and Patrice and family were there as well. Everyone contributed to the fabulous dinner. Afterward, we did our annual telling of the Christmas story, this time narrated by Maren. As you can imagine, with nine grandkids acting out the story, it gets crazy.

Still, though, in the end, the kids manage to feel the reverence of the story. This year, I think they particularly felt the spirit of Christmas as Grandpa led a discussion about why the story of Christ's birth is so important. I have always enjoyed how we focus first on why we celebrate Christmas before everyone tears into their presents. It can be a bit chaotic managing all the anxious kids who want nothing more than to find out what they got from their cousin, but taking just a few minutes to discuss the meaning of Christmas gives purpose to the gift exchange, strengthens faith in Christ and each other, and will surely have far- and long-reaching effects.

I think the pictures tell the tale of how the presents were received!


Klara was on a roll last night, providing lots of entertainment. She seemed to love her present so much that she couldn't resist kissing it. Then, while we all enjoyed dessert (which we really did quite enjoy), Klara shows up with a potty seat around her head!


Though we had a great time, we all missed our California cousins and Oregonian uncle. Hopefully Lauren, Michaela, Daisy, and Annabelle will be able to get together, too; I think Nathan's on his own in Oregon, but we look forward to a time when we can all celebrate Christmas together. Maybe next year!

Swaddling Clothes

Morgan is at the stage where her understanding about Christmas is so precious. She is very intrigued by the story of baby Jesus and Mary and the reasons behind Christmas. We are so glad for her sweet spirit that reminds us to avoid the commercialism and focus on the true spirit behind the holiday. This little manger and doll were given to her this year by Grandma Laurence. The doll had seen better days, but Morgan didn't care. All she knew is it represented baby Jesus, so she brought it home, got about ten kleenex's out and made that baby as comfortable as it could be in the manger. Merry Christmas my sweet little angel!

A Visit from Santa

"Morgan, who is it?"
"Santa!"

Preschool Christmas Program

Morgan is not one to be told what to do, including performing for an audience. She loves preschool, but when it comes to the programs, she tends to clam up and resist with her "will of steel" any coercion to play the part of happily singing four year old. This is so funny to us at home because around the house we can't get her to STOP singing. This Christmas season was no exception. All month long she sang Christmas songs around the house but we feared what the program would bring. Our little Christmas miracle this year was the night of the program she sang all but two songs and seemed to actually enjoy it for the most part! Grandma and Grandpa Besaw were able to view the miracle as well. We love that Morgan sings for us and are so glad she shared that with others! Thank you Mrs. Skousen, for putting together such a great evening.

Piano Recital

A Christmas tradition that started when Mackenzie and Madison were in second grade was the Christmas piano recital each year. This year Clayton was able to participate in the recital for the first time which made it extra special. They all worked very hard to prepare for this night and did an amazing job with their Christmas songs. We are so pleased with the progress the kids have made in developing their musical abilities and talents. It is always a treat to hear them playing, especially during this season when so much can be expressed through music! Thank you to Jill Bell for teaching them so well and providing them with the opportunity to perform. We hope it is a tradition that lasts for many years to come!

A Christmas Tradition