Sunday, December 26, 2010

Christmas Day 2010 (Part 2)

After our Christmas Festivities we headed over to Carolyns house for Christmas dinner. It was the first time since we have been married that all of Chris brothers and sister were able to make it for Christmas Day. Michelle actually flew in the morning of Christmas to surprise Carolyn. It was great to all be together in Carolyn's new place and to be able to spend Christmas together. We had a great time eating, opening gifts, eating, sharing stories, eating, and just being together....and did I mention eating? Hope that we will be able to spend more Christmas together in the future!

The usual girl pic
Carolyn trying out her gift....Seems to be working great!Udvadry Family
Ted Cameron Family
Our Little Family
Michelle and Ben
Yes its present time!Loving his presents
Aunt Melissa and GrantWho is taller?Just hanging out

Christmas Day 2010 (Part 1)

Wow! Christmas was so much fun this year! I can honestly say there is nothing more fun than seeing it through the eyes of your child. I really think I was more excited than the kids. Every time a gift was bought or an activity was planned I just could not wait to see how the kids would react. Honestly on Christmas morning I woke up early and say and waited to hear the kids wake up....Nothing! So I got in the shower and got ready for the day and then FINALLY we went out to get ready for the kids and get them up. Aunt Melissa stayed the night and when I walked out had Christmas music playing and Skype up so that Granddaddy and Grandma Coates in Florida could be a part of our Christmas out here. We got the kids up and it was everything I imagine. The excitement of Chase was SO cute! He came out with the biggest smile, and said, "Are you kidding me? Are you kidding me? Are you kidding me?" Grant and Chase got right to looking at there toys! I really think they got everything they wanted. Chase asked Santa for two things every time a helicopter and monster truck with a remote control! He was very happy to see that Santa had brought him a monster truck, and his Daddy got him a helicopter. The day started off great! Presents, Breakfast, and Family! I really could not have asked for a better day! I am so blessed that I was with the my husband and kids, and that my sister was able to join us for Christmas morning. They each did so much to really make it the best day for me! Most of all at this time of year I am so grateful for our Savior. He really is the reason for the season and if there is anything I can do, I hope to teach my kids that he is the center of Christmas and the reason for celebrating. Merry Christmas!

Christmas Morning before the mess!
Checking out there toys!
Oh Christmas Morning!
Grants Big Gift!
Talking to Grandma and Grandaddy Coates
Opening GiftsSo excited to get his helicopter.
Chase just figured out there was more....STOCKINGS YAHOO!
Aunt Melissa showing off her stocking
Yahoo! Jazz Tickets (A gift for both of us)
The Buzz Wings

Friday, December 24, 2010

Christmas Eve 2010

I always love Christmas Eve. The anticipation and just the feeling of the day is the best. For me it is better than Christmas Day itself. We had a great Christmas Eve with Aunt Melissa, The Udvardy's, Grami Cami, and Uncle Ben! It was honestly a perfect night! We had lots of food, tracked Santa, and sangs songs. Uncle Ben told the story of the Grinch and the kids could not take there eyes off of him. No one could have told the story better than Uncle Ben. Chris then talked about the true meaning of Christmas and we again, listened to the talk given by President Uchtdorf at the Christmas Devotional. The spirit of Christmas could not have been stronger in our little home and I am just grateful that I was able to spend it with so many people that we love and care about.

The spread. Taco Soup and LOTS of snacks! We like food around here!
Chase so excited for Santa....He cannot get here fast enoughDoing what we do best!
Udvardys
Ben telling the story of the Grinch
All the kids in tune to what he is saying....Chase looks like he is questioning what he is saying.
Tracking Santa
Time to Open Christmas Eve Gifts
Jammies...I think that is what everyone gets
Time for our Christmas Eve Songs.....Grandaddy and Grandma joined us
So Fun!
One last letter to Santa
Time for bed!