Brayden's field trip

This month I was lucky enough to get to go on Brayden's field trip. We went to the mall to see Santa, shop at the dollar store for a Christmas present and finished up with ice cream from Chick-fil-A. His teacher once again amazed me. She bought each student an elf hat and mini fanny pack to carry their letter to Santa and their money. For two weeks before the field trip the kids did extra "chores" in class to earn dimes. (They were learning how to count by 10's) The morning of the field trip each student went to the "bank" and traded their dimes in for dollar bills. It was brilliant! Once we made it to Santa and each child had his own turn, they sang him some songs, measured his tummy and left him with a snack. It was utter chaos, and it was WONDERFUL! It is definitely a memory that will stay with me for a lifetime!

Kaitlynn's music performance

This year the third grade was picked to give us a holiday music program at the monthly PTA meeting. Grandma and grandpa drove over for the evening and we all had a great time. Kaity is such a cute little ham! She gets into it and rocks out like nobody's business. It was interesting to hear all the "cultural" holiday music that they had to learn. It gave us all a pretty good laugh!

Christmas morning 2008

I hope that you all had a very merry Christmas! We had a great morning filled with magic. Santa brought Kaity a camera and she started sobbing when she opened it. She was so excited that the camera didn't leave her hand all day. Santa brought Brayden a new big boy scooter and his beloved dinosaur that "scares" people. Thanks to all who sent cards, gifts and especially those who have kept us in their prayers. Hopefully Travis will hear soon about a new job. I wish us all a happy new year.

Travis' 35th birthday

After we opened all our presents we started Travis' birthday party. After a lunch of pizza we packed everyone into our van and went to the bowling alley. We bowled for 3 hours- that's too much bowling! Afterwards we headed back home for cake and presents. I think that Travis had a great time even if it meant he was a whole year older!

Day after Christmas 2008

The day after Christmas we decided to put the good weather to good use. It was a perfect day for beach going and kite flying!

Festival of the Nativities 2008

This year I have really been aware of my blessings. Not that I am not always grateful for what I have, but sometimes it is easy for me to fall into the "woe is me" mood. With the economy in such bad shape my awareness of others has increased and my attitude has done some shifting- for the better. I have always loved Christmas and all the commercial aspects of the holiday. I do know what the true meaning of Christmas is and I do enjoy the religious aspect of the season, but I admit that the dazzle and the sparkle of beautifully wrapped gifts under the Christmas tree and pretty new Christmas clothes has always been an important part of my holiday. I am ashamed to admit that. This year I have opened my heart and my eyes to what is truly important. Today is Dec. 8 and we have few gaily wrapped packages under our tree. We realized that the time we spend as a family is the best gift that we could give ourselves. The memories that we make with our children are priceless and will be treasured always. We have been on the hunt for fun family events this season and have come up with quite a list. Last night we attended the festival of the nativities at the stake center across from the temple. It was BEAUTIFUL! When we were done there we went across the street to the temple grounds and let the kids "go to the temple." They are such sweet spirits that teach me on a daily basis. They have a love for the temple that is almost palpable. I am very grateful that we are so blessed. I know that many of you are experiencing difficult times. When life seems unbearable just look into the sweet faces of your children and you will realize how wealthy you are!

Santa Downtown Disney 2008

I love this time of year! Friday night after dinner we drove to Downtown Disney. We do this every Christmas even if we don't have Disney passes. The kids LOVE it there. We were a little disappointed though at the lack of carolers and music programs this year. That is usually the highlight of our visit. Nevertheless, the kids were thrilled to see Santa and drink some hot cocoa that mommy didn't make from a box! :)I love the magic of Christmas!

Hollywood studios 2008

I Love this time of year! Christmas lights, holiday music, and yummy smells- need I say more?! Yesterday we were experiencing one of those rare Florida winter days where a coat was actually required. I came up with the idea at lunch time to take the kids to Hollywood studios after dinner to see the spectacular light display. I figured that with the weather nice and cool, it would seem like we were back west! We didn't ride a single ride or take in any of the typical shows, instead we stayed on main street for 2 hours just taking in all the sights and smells. The kids were THRILLED with the snow that falls from the rooftops of New York and San Francisco and Brayden was determined to catch some on his tongue. It's too bad that they tasted like soap! It truly feels like the holiday season is under way. I am trying to enjoy every minute of it because it will be all over before I know it! So remember the reason of the season this holiday and count your blessings! I know that times are difficult for many, but we are all truly blessed in things that matter. Happy Holidays!