Washington DC Temple Lights

the farm

The Saturday after Christmas ended up being a really nice day outside. We decided to take the kids to the farm. It was great for Miriam and Simon to get outside and play with their cousins. Even though we have spent many days at Frying Pan Farm the kids still love seeing the animals (and I never tire of taking pictures of their cute faces). 

Christmas Afternoon at Grandma's and Grandpa's House

After our morning at home we headed over to Michael's parents house for the rest of Christmas day. The kids got to open the presents from Grandma and Grandpa. Miriam and Simon were excited to see their cousins and play all day. It was great having Rebecca and the Hawks family here for Christmas. Miriam did a great job helping me take pictures all day.

After presents we had the opportunity to talk with Eric (who is serving a mission in San Jose, CA). Technology is amazing. We were able to have everyone on a call with him. He is doing great things with the Chinese speaking people in California.

After an amazing turkey dinner we were also able to talk with Elizabeth (who is serving a mission in Tacoma, WA). It was great to spend a few minutes chatting with her.

Christmas is the best day of the year. Spending time with family is what it is all about. We are grateful for all we were given.

Christmas Morning

Christmas morning at home keeps getting better each year. I love being with my little family. Seeing the magic on the kids faces brings me such joy. This year was a lot of fun. Everyone was happy and excited about the gifts they received. More importantly everyone was excited for the gifts they were giving.

Michael got a Kindle Paperwhite and accessories. He also got some new slippers and a thing that cleans cast iron pans (because he is obsessed with cleaning and seasoning our pans). Vanessa got an iPad mini and accessories. She also got a rice cooker and wok.

Miriam and Simon both got a boogie boards and cases. They also both got new plasma bikes. Miriam got My Little Ponies, Elsa and Anna Barbies, books, clothes, and a Snow White Barbie. Simon got power tools, a shooter (Nerf gun), books, clothes, and a Ninja Turtle.

Levi enjoyed his first Christmas. He was really interested in the wrapping paper and only a little interested in the presents. Levi got a mini tablet toy, a piano, books, clothes, balls, and a My Pal Scout.

We had a wonderful Christmas morning.

 

Here are the videos I took on Christmas. Some how I didn't get one of Simon. I finally felt like I took enough pictures this year. Now I need to work on taking more videos on Christmas (and throughout the whole year).