Highlights of Christmas 2009

We were blessed to have Ryan, Sarah, Jeffrey, Jenn, Laura Lee, Marc, Addie, Kate, and Tanner all at home for Christmas this year. How we loved being together. Nine adults, one toddler and one baby under one roof was a houseful. One of the best highlights for me was talking for an hour to our missionary son Michael on Christmas evening. He has a humble, tender heart and we all felt it. We miss him dearly - but would not want him here. He's where he belongs and we feel so grateful that that is the case.

We enjoyed delicious meals and treats together and have new yummy recipe's to share. Everyone cooked and cleaned and I felt such appreciation for that. We enjoyed using our new dining room table where we all gathered together for memorable times.

We had some great activities including bowling, a Pirate murder mystery dinner, Christmas Bingo, Christmas shopping and watching movies.

We had some special moments including Christmas Eve night when we sang Christmas hymns and read the Christmas story. I was able to go to Kirtland with Sarah and Ryan a few days ago which always touches my heart deeply.

We were able to get family photo's of our tribe which I will cherish.

Christmas Day was filled with delight. The lit tree, stockings, presents to open, homemade gifts, Christmas music in the background, the magic of Christmas for Addie, and strengthened family ties all warm my heart and bring gladness to my soul.

Our home feels empty again but that's okay. That's how it's supposed to be and I'm grateful. I love that my children have spouses and are beginning lives of their own. I love watching them make wise and wonderful decisions. I love feeling the ever increasing admiration and fondness I have for my children including those who married into our family - and I love being a grandmother!