Christmas 2009

This Christmas was as busy as ever. We are still (even after 5 1/2 years together) trying to figure out what our traditions are. Once again, this Christmas came and went and I felt like I didn't get to do everything I wanted to do or the way I wanted to do it. I wasn't really in the Christmas mood this year, and even despite my efforts to serve others and try to have the spirit of Christ in Christmas - I don't feel like I achieved that. The kids did enjoy some of the activities we did, and Carson really "got it" this year - getting excited about Santa Claus, the tree, the Little People Nativity I bought (even though he and Jaedyn were constantly fighting over the Baby Jesus), the lights, the goodies and the general excitement in the air. I hope that in the coming years I can try to bring my kids the happy memories of Christmas, that I had when I was a kid.
Some of the activities we did this year were to attend our Ward Christmas party (where Paul got to play a part as Richard Paul Evans), Festival of Trees, This is the Place Heritage Park, an Evans family party, and a Swanson family party. Paul and I went Christmas shopping and Paul got really excited buying a "retro" Christmas present for Carson - a Hot Wheels race track set - which Paul and Carson really enjoyed setting up Christmas morning. Paul also got the dreaded assembly task - putting together the "retro" kitchen set for Jaedyn. I am grateful for the opportunity I had to spend time with my family - I guess THAT is what Christmas is all about.

Carson putting a pound of frosting and sprinkles on the cookies!

New Christmas Jammies!

Cookies for Santa, Carrots for Rudolph

Reindeer "food" - Thanks to Aunt Natalie for this fun project!

Merry Christmas!

The excitement of a new toy!

Jaedyn started to understand what un-wrapping presents was all about!

Grandpa read the Grandkids 'Twas the Night Before Christmas - so cute!

A cute little bunch of monsters!