Christmas Festivities

We had a great Christmas and hope all of you did too!Here's a run down of the celebrations...

Christmas Eve

We spent Christmas Eve this year with the Goodrich family. The night begins with a delicious dinner, tons of food, all of which are appetizers. It's a fun tradition, and this year we all brought 2 dishes, so there were new things to try. I always eat way too much!

We had a special visitor this year; Santa came! It was quite unexpected and Molly didn't have time to prepare. She was slightly scared, if you can't tell...She did like the treats he brought her!After a fun game involving dice, big gloves, and a present wrapped numerous times, we headed upstairs for the nativity. Molly actually participated this time as an angel.Lizzy took her part very seriously; when it was her turn, she came out, put both arms high in the air, and recited the line from Luke, "Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy..."

Then we gathered around and listened to a story and a spiritual message by Grandpa.We exchanged sibling gifts. Eric and Heidi had us so Tiana got Molly a small present, a My Little Pony. It was a hit since ponies have been her obsession for the last couple of months. Thanks Tiana!The night is always ended by gathering around the piano and singing Christmas songs.

I love Christmas Eve because everyone, grown-ups and children, are so excited about the following day...the feeling of anticipation is great!

Christmas Morning

Christmas morning was equally wonderful; Molly understood most of what was going on and Justin and I had tons of fun watching her. When we got up, Molly got to check out her Santa gift and open the things in her stocking. She got a fish tank from Santa.She loves to help Daddy feed the fish. As soon as she wakes up in the morning, she says "My fish are hungry!"We made Molly eat breakfast before opening the presents under the tree, but she didn't mind waiting. When we finally made it to the presents, she would tear right into the paper, see what it was, and then say, "Daddy, will you open it for me, please?" She got blocks, dishes, and food.Daddy seems to like his new drill.And although there is no picture of me on Christmas morning (and I'm okay with that), I love my books and new shoes!

Right about the time we were finishing up, Grandma and Grandpa Goodrich got to our house. Since we were all there the night before, they were nice enough to make the rounds on Christmas morning-Thanks! Molly got a Princess scooter, which is so cute! She needs a little help now, but pretty soon she'll be zooming all over on it.Justin and I were surprised by season tickets to Hale Theater, which guarantees that we'll get at least 6 dates this year! Sad to say, this is probably more than last year!

Christmas afternoon

Even though a blizzard was in the forecast, we headed up to Plain City in the afternoon. The ride was pleasant on the way there and pretty much a white-out on the way home. But we made it safe and sound and were sure glad we went! Molly got a kitchen, that goes great with her food and her dishes.Justin and I got spoiled as well.Merry, merry Christmas!

I know I focused mostly on the gifts that we received, and they were great, but let me make known how grateful I am for the one gift that is of most importance, the gift of our Savior, Jesus Christ. How grateful I am for His humble birth, His life, His teachings, the great sacrifice He made for me and for everyone, and for His gospel which has been restored.