The kids tied fleece blankets to take to kids who have to have surgery. I hope they remember little things like this.
When my mom was in town we went on walks, shopped and were able to go the new Provo City Center temple.
The kids took swim lessons this fall and did great. They all know how to swim but we keep sticking them in lessons because TJ thinks someone should be on a swim team and so they could have a sweet job when they are in highschool.
More rock climbing with the Clarkes. This was a different climb for the kids because it wasn't the red rock like in Moab. Plus it was a cold day and all of our fingers and hands were frozen.
We had Thanksgiving in Arizona this year at Heidis house. It was nice to have warmer weather and be in the sun.
But we came home from the sun to a lot of snow and I am so happy that we made it back in time for the first snow! I really hate missing that. And Roxy was just a little excited to have me pick her up from the pet hotel.
Classic getting the Christmas tree picture in the truck.
For Christmas this year the church came out with a Light the World campaign. Each day there is a theme of how Jesus helped others and how we can to. It has truly been amazing to be apart of and to know that millions around the world are doing same thing! To know that each and everyday people are consciencly putting others first and serving those around them. It has brought such a sweet sweet spirit into our home and I want to continue this every year. I hope my kids can feel a difference and that along with Santa and presents they can know why we celebrate Christmas and how we can do that without any of the commercialized Christmas hype that is covering the world. One night Tallie and I were able to go to the Food and Care Coalition to help serve dinner. Tallie was super excited to go and it was such a good experience and we both had a lot of fun and I think we will both remember this for a very long time. It really helped put us in the right Christmas frame of mind.
One day we all made Christmas cards and then took them to a nursing home with older people and people who have mental issues. I'm really proud of my girls for being so brave. Its not easy to go out of your comfort zone but they all did great and mingled and they each took a turn playing Christmas songs on the piano. I did too. Growing up my dad would always take me to visit my grandma in her nursing home and he would always tell me to play the piano for all of the residents. He said it didn't matter how many songs I knew but just to play them over and over. So I would and it is something I will always remember. It was such a sweet experience to watch my kids do the same thing to bring happiness to other thru music.
The best game ever called Speak Out.
Christmas festivities always include decorating gingerbread houses (sadly the Wilkins had to cancel so we did them at home) and going to the Dollar Store to buy sibling gifts. Next I think we should take it to DI!
