Christmas Day

Christmas morning is very quiet at our house.  No little ones knocking at our door, so anxious to see what "Santa brought".  So, when Brad and I first get up, we walk around the house, making sure everything is in place, enjoy a few moments of solitude, and then WE start knocking on doors.   I remember when it would be 6:00 a.m......then 7:00 a.m.....and now, it's 8:00 a.m.  That allowed me a good 5 1/2 hours sleep!  Aaron held to the tradition of waking his sisters up.....they were very sleepy!

We waited for Tyler, Jenny, and Jade and then opened our stockings and presents.  Our tradition consists of sitting around the Christmas tree and waiting while Dad passes out the presents.  We took a little longer this time - I think it was because we had to try out all of Jade's toys!

Afterwards, we all head to Grammy and Grampy's for a wonderful breakfast of chorizo and blueberry pancakes and all the trimmings!  Everyone comes in their pj's and no make-up is allowed!  Usually, each kids brings a favorite gift they received at home to share with everyone else.  It's so much fun to see all the gadgets!

Then the opening of presents around the family Christmas tree.  What a spectacular sight!

  Grampy sits his chair right next to the tree and Chloe helped him gather the presents that were hard for him to reach.  I love watching the expressions of our family as they open presents that have carefully been crafted for them.

Opening a book created by LaNae which had their temple marriage pictures, with all of their girls and their temple marriage pictures also. 

a traditional hand-crafted calendar by Pam

Mexican bracelets brought back by Aly

A history compiled by Pam

While opening presents, the littlest are NOT lacking for love and attention!!  Each waits patiently while others open presents until their name is called - and then a smile lights up their face!

  Afterwards, we all head back to our homes for some much needed rest, and I'm sure a clean-up.  Later on in the afternoon, we are all ready for the Christmas meal.  Much like Thanksgiving, it doesn't lack for wonderful, tasty dishes.  Grammy and Grampy always make a beautiful table and we enjoy each other's company and play games...well....most of us do!

Christmas was wonderful this year.  Our family was together and we spent time creating new memories.  It's a time to emulate the love of our Savior, remember His life, and recommit to emulating His teachings in our own lives.  His tender mercies have been too numerous to count, but as we live each day, giving thanks for our very lives, we can show our love to Him.  That is something I strive to do each day!