Snow in So. Cal.

This is not a sight that is seen very often in Southern California. In Dec. Calif. got quite a bit of precipitation. Jordan is at a elevation just high enough that is was in the form of snow. There was snow on the palm trees. The p-day after this first pic. his whole district took a drive into the canyon a bit higher than where they live and went sledding for the day. Who knew? You go to Ca. on your mission and see snow. It must be global warming.

The Writer

this last semester Taylor has been taking a dual credit history class. He had the assignment to write a essay about Benjamin Franklin and his contributions that have benefitted our lives. Taylor spent a fair amount of time on this. This is really tough for Taylor because he hates to write essays/stories/papers. He turned in his paper and continued on his merry way. Last week he found out that he had won 3rd place in a Sons of American Revolution contest. He also got a $100 savings bond. He/We didn't know there was any contest but it's great to see that when he really tries that he is able to accomplish something to be proud of. Way to go Tay!!!

Pearly whites

After

Before
The long awaited day arrived yesterday. Taylor got his braces off. Yeah!!!!!!!!!!I don't know who was more excited, him or me. I remember that day many years ago. He was suppose to go for his final appt. the end of Oct. then get them off a week later. That was when we were in Utah. So it was rescheduled for Nov. and the soonest they could fit him in for removal was Jan. He was very patient and now his teeth are beautiful. I keep making him smile for me and it doesn't take too much coaxing.

Sights of Christmas

I love to pull out the Christmas decorations. Before they're all packed away for another year I thought I would share some of my favorites at our house.

Christmas of change

In the 22 years that Ken and I have been married we have only spent one Christmas on our own. Until this year. With Jordan on his mission and my parents on their mission we decided to stay in Houston. It was nice to not have the stress of travel and packing and we were able to do a few activities that we miss because we're gone, but overall I prefer the big family celebration. Yes I know it's crazy, loud, and hectic but I really missed being together with all my family. Ken's mom and her husband live just a mile from my parents so they are always part of the festivities. I miss the traditions, the sitting around visiting, catching up on each other's lives, the cousins playing/fighting, the goofy family, the lack of sleep and coming home to a big pile of Christmas cards. Thanks to great friends the Adelmans for a fun cookie decorating/caroling FHE and the Ortons for the great Christmas eve celebration. My sister Amy and her husband and kids came down Christmas Day and it was great to spend time together. I realize that as life changes and especially as the kids get older it's up to me to make those special memories no matter where Christmas is.

Nativities

I love Nativities, I have over a dozen. They have been aquired over the years and each year when I put them out many wonderful memories come with them. This year two special friends added some special pieces to two of my favorites. I just want to say thank you so much and let them know how much I appreciate them adding to my memories.

Santa and Two of His Elves

This is a picture that Elder Torbit sent from a Ward Christmas Party. He is pictured here with his companion, Elder Rose (on the left), and Santa Claus (in the center) ;-).