Christmas Day!!

We were very blessed this year. Not only did we get to open lots of amazing presents, we got to spend time together and with family. Each day I am amazed by some blessing or another. I don't know what I did to deserve such great children and a loving husband. More then all the packages of stuff, I am so happy we have each other to help us through this life. Each day is a gift to use as we will. I don't always use them wisely but I definately cherish each one I am given.
And I am thankful for the yearly reminder that our Savior came into the world and atoned for our sins so that through him, all things are possible. Hope is one of the greatest of all gifts. Christmas is a time for healing broken hearts and as we approach a new year, I want to go into it trying to fear God a little less and trust in Him a little more.

First Piano Recital!

Gabe and Raygen had their first piano recital on December 11th. They did such a good job. Raygen played "Jolly Old Saint Nicholas" and Gabe played "We Wish You a Merry Christmas". They looked so cute too! Gabe was very last and had to play his song 3 times. During the last time through, all the kids stood up and sang with him. He was very nervous about that, but did great! They really like their teacher, JoRene. She rewards them generously each week with nickels (for practicing) and quarters (for memorizing). And each month she picks a "Student of the Month". They have been it twice. They get a bag with a soda, bag of popcorn, and certificate for a free movie from the local video store. It has been great to watch them grow and learn! Grandpa Benton, Uncle Braydon, Aunt Brittney, Branson, Bridger, Uncle Brett, and Aunt Kathi all came to watch too! We are so lucky to have such a supportive family!

Christmas!!

We've started out the Christmas season with a lot of fun. While it has been hard to get in the mood this year, spending time together as a family helps. The day after Thanksgiving we participated in the annual Preston's Kids Day Parade. We had cousins and preschoolers dress up like Rudolph and pull Mrs. Smith in her sleigh. It was cute and tons of fun! Even though our red noses kept blowing down the street,we won "Most Creative" and each got a certificate for a free pizza. Then we headed to Salt Lake for the Festival of Trees. There were hundreds of cool decorated trees, a gingerbread village, activities for the kids, and Ridge even sat on Santa's lap!
This year we took the 4 wheeler up in the mountains and cut down our own tree. The kids rode behind us in a big sled and had fun shaking the snow off the trees to see if they were good. They are also old enough to decorate it now. All I had to do was put the lights on and they took care of the rest. We are trying to concentrate on positive thoughts this season and just thank our Father in Heaven for all of the blessings He sends us each day.