December 2014

It's crazy how life gets busy and time passes so quickly.  I've been a horrible blogger.  I'd really like to be better because it's a great way for me to "journal" some of our daily happenings.  

So, here's to trying to be a little better.

Family Fun Times

Handing out toys and gift cards at Macey's

This past December it was our turn to be in charge of the family service project.  We decided to do daily acts of service.  Some of things we did were: hand out popcorn as people rented Redbox movies, send notes to friends & neighbors, hand out gift cards, and toys.  It was a really awesome experience.  The kids liked seeing the reaction of those being served.  One family in particular really had an impact on me.  It was a husband, wife, and 2 small children doing a little grocery shopping.  One of the kids went up to the mom and handed her a gift card and said, "Merry Christmas".  At first she was unsure what to do, but then she took it and immediately started crying and thanking us.  It wasn't much, but it helped that family.  To see the joy on her face was simply priceless.  I think this experience was good for all of us and even though it won't be our turn to be in charge this year again, I think this might be something that our family does just because it was such an amazing thing to be a part of!!  Giving  is SO much better than receiving.

We went on a double date with Tanner & Holly to Temple Square.  We rode Trax there, had dinner, and then walked around and looked at the lights.  It was beautiful and we had a really great time.  I'm not quite sure how Holly felt, but hopefully she had fun too!

Our family Christmas Eve party is always so much fun.  We eat delicious food, open our new jammies, sing songs, laugh, and this year we watched a few videos together.

Christmas morning always comes very early for us.  I think it's the only day Tanner is the first one up and is poking the other kids awake.  The kids all seemed very happy with their loot.  Luckily they are always grateful for what they get.  We spent the day being lazy and then went to my parents house for a traditional Russian dinner.  It was yummy and fun to try new foods.  

2014 ended well!!