Christmas 2009 Part 1

Since Randall got his call on the 17th, we decided that we wanted to try to go home to AZ sooner than later.  We packed things up and headed out on the 18th.  We didn't get in until almost 11, but we were glad to be "Home"!  While we were home, I was able to work for Belinda at Belinda's Kitchen (formerly Rollin' in the Dough).  This was the 9th year that I have worked making cinnamon rolls over Christmas Break.  I love that I am able to earn some extra money around the holidays, and help out a wonderful family member.   It was really nice because Mike was able to watch the kids while I worked, role reversal there, and get some quality time with them while he was off of school.

On the 22nd, we went to Bass Pro Shop with Chaney, Cory, Rubi and Scottie to see Santa.  Zane had been so excited to go see Santa, but I knew he would be afraid.  After waiting in line, it was our turn.  Chaney put Rubi and Scottie up on Santa's lap.  Rubi got down screaming so we put Nate up there.  Zane wouldn't even go near him.  Scottie was too young to really know what was going on, but Nate knew enough to scream.  It was quite comical.  I think Chaney got a picture, but I didn't.  We quickly exited the area and on the way out, there was a four wheeler and some games.  Who knew that those were more exciting than Santa?

A few days before Christmas, Jasongot really sick and ended up in the hospital with appendicitis and had to have emergency surgery.  The Johnson kids got to spend a few nights with us at Grandma Ann and Pa's.  We were all relieved that Jason was able to come home on Christmas Eve and didn't have to spend Christmas in the hospital. 

We spent Christmas Eve with both families, as usual.  We started at Julie's house for the Despain family Christmas Eve.  On our way there, we stopped at Sam's Club to get gas.  Who could have guessed that our friends from California, The Cady's, would pull up behind us.  It was fun to see them in AZ.  We had our traditional Mexican food buffet for dinner. Then  we had a white elephant gift exchange and the kids put on a nativity. 

 

 Bret and Randall waiting on pins and needles for the nativity to start

Pa read the story from the scriptures

Julie directed the kids.  Ayla was a shepherd and Emily was an angel.

Nate was supposed to be a shepherd, but he ran away and ripped off his headdress as soon as Julie put it on him.

Andrea made a beautiful Mary and Angel Emily was so patient.

Our Wisemen, Zane and Jayden, inspecting their gifts.

Bret and Randall were wondering why we gave Ayla a big stick, while Nate played with the Little People Nativity Set.

This was as close as we got to a full nativity scene.

After the nativity, we were off to the Giffords.  Grandma gives the kids new matching pajamas and they love all being "matchy-matchy"

All the kids ready for Santa to come!