Merry Christmas 2007

We sure have been enjoying the Christmas Holiday. The boys finished up with school on Tuesday the 18th. On Wednesday, (after sleeping in) we decided to go do a secret Santa good deed. We have a neighbor who had tons of leaves and sticks in their front yard so we thought we would clean them up. The boys worked very hard and after two hours or more the yard looked great. After totally filling the truck with bags of leaves and sticks, the thought came to me of now what were we going to do with this stuff??

Thursday, Dustin played basketball at the ASU Convocation Center in the NEA Tournament. His team didn't win but it was fun seeing him play in the big arena. On Friday, we went to see "Alvin and the Chipmunks". The boys thought it was hilarious - I wouldn't say hilarious but it was cute. I think they liked the "Refillable" popcorn tub and giant soda that we got the best.

After the movie, Dustin met us (he had had basketball practice) at Colton's Steak House for a fun dinner. On Sunday after church, we went and delivered goodies to our neighbors. I told the boys they could sing a Christmas Carol too but they decided to hand out the goodies and run. Monday morning, Christmas Eve, we went out to eat breakfast at Cracker Barrel. This is a new tradition that we started with our friends, the Calvins and Hatfields, two years ago. Last year, Christmas Eve was on Sunday so we didn't get to do it. I think the boys were more excited to play checkers then they were to eat.


The rest of Christmas Eve day we spent getting ready for Nana, Papa and Uncle Bill to arrive. That evening we went to Barry's family's house for dinner and presents. Barry's brother was in charge of the grilling - lots of steaks!




After dinner, before we tore into our presents I helped the little kids put on the Christmas story. Barry read from the Bible while the kids acted out the parts. It was very cute and a good reminder of what Christmas is all about.

Then it was PRESENT time!

A guest appearance by Hannah Montana (aka Shay)


Christmas morning finally arrived. The boys waited patiently on the steps for Dustin to wake up. Sixteen year olds are not quite as excited about Santa coming as the younger ones were.

We had a good breakfast and then finally everyone was awake and we went into the living room to open presents. We were happy to have Nana, Papa and Uncle Bill visiting us for Christmas.

After all of the presents were opened, everyone scattered to different areas of the house to play, play, play.

Tanner got a "Forest Retreat" Set.

Corey got a new PlayStation II basketball game and also Guitar Hero which everyone has been trying out.

Kannon and Papa played several games of Super Hero Yahtzee.

Tanner and Kannon each got Valley View Blazer jerseys so they went outside for a basketball game to try them out.

We had a wonderful Christmas. We loved spending time with many friends and family. We missed those family and friends that live off but we enjoyed presents, cards, and phone cards from them. We are grateful for all of the blessings we have and especially grateful for our knowledge of our Savior Jesus Christ. We hope to keep the Spirit of Christmas with us throughout the year.