Holiday Happenings

Breanna, Brinley, Anna, Heather, Elsie on floor

We always look forward to listening to the First Presidency's Christmas Devotional the first Sunday in December.  We also celebrated Jagger's 5th birthday last Sunday - so there were plenty of little (noisy) cousins around as we watched together at Bob & Janene's house.

Quinn - listening to Christmas messages

Anna & Brinley - entertained by the 'bears'

Quinn's first indoor soccer season is ending with his final game this coming Tuesday.  Good times!

Taylor, Kaylee & JC, Janelle & Chris

Thursday evening we hosted the annual HCP Christmas Party at our home with just office staff and their spouses (35-40 people).  It was the first year we haven't included the SRC associates so perhaps the old-timers felt left out (?) but moving it off site as we've done the past few years to accommodate the large crowd wasn't feasible.  It made this year's gathering feel so relaxed and simple!

Sara & Dee

Heather, Debbie & Erik, Doug & Kailee, Jen & Kire, Lainee & Mitchell

We ordered pulled-pork/buns, coleslaw and macaroni and cheese from The Hickory Restaurant then had people bring salads or desserts.  The traditional white elephant game was played and everyone had a fun evening - even with the snowy, slick roads outside! 

Friday evening Aaron and I took Quinn and Elsie to a (free) Christmas concert featuring BYU-I's jazz band and vocal ensemble group.  These college students are so talented!

The show was geared for a younger audience and included appearances made by The Grinch, Rudolph, Frosty the Snowman and Santa Claus.  Quinn and Elsie loved it when elves walked through the aisles throwing out candy.  They even marched in a jingle bell parade and sat on Santa's lap before the evening was over.  Right away Quinn noticed the dark eye-brows and made a comment later to me that this could NOT be the real Santa.

The children are currently delivering neighbor gifts and spreading cheer to others.  It will be another fun-filled holiday week ahead.  We chose to do the 12 Days of Christmas this year to a couple of missionaries we know serving in the Pittsburg, PA mission!  Shhh...it's our secret.  SO fun.