Christmas 2011

Nothing like backtracking 8 months. I don't know why I slack off so much . I look at other people's blogs and love to read about what is going on in their lives I just don't keep up with my own blog. We always have two family Christmas parties. One with the Thackers (Darwin's mom's side) and one with the Parkers (Darwin's dad's side).

This picture was taken at Darwin's parents' house at the Thacker Christmas party. Santa Claus always comes and the kids are excited to see him. I don't have any pictures from the Parker party. Maybe in a few months I'll take some....

Christmas was on a Sunday this year and I absolutely loved that. I felt closer to my Savior on this particular Christmas than any other. I think far too often we think about Santa, presents, and parties more than we should. I love all of the fun traditions with Christmas I just really enjoyed the spiritual side to it as well. Darwin and I woke the kids up. We had a lot to get done before church and then heading to our parents' houses.

Here is Jensyn wrapped in her blanket checking out what Santa left for her.

Hurley is pretty excited and didn't wait at all to start playing with his new things from Santa.

Jensyn and Hurley each got each other a gift and they were both pretty excited to give it to the other.

 

I wonder where Violet was. Probably sleeping so we don't have any pictures of her.

After we we opened the presents at our house we went to Sacrament Meeting. It was the best church meeting I ever remember attending. I think we had over 10 musical numbers and I was amazed by the talent of the ward members. Everything was focused on the Savior. After church Darwin and I agreed that we think each year there should some sort of churchy thing on Christmas. It only lasted an hour so it was the perfect amount of time.

After church we went to the Parkers for breakfast and to exchange gifts. The kids got spoiled and really enjoyed there time with their cousins. Hurley wanted a garbage truck for Christmas and that is what Grandma Parker gave him. I am pretty sure he had played with it everyday since Christmas.

Jensyn got a purple tutu skirt that she loves. I am pretty sure she wears it once a week. Grandma Parker picked some good gifts.

After the Parkers we went to my parents' house. We had had a huge family fight just a few days before so I think I was pretty nervous about taking any pictures. Here is a picture of Violet and her Great Grandma Tanaka (she is my dad's mom).

I really enjoyed Christmas day. I loved being with my family and watching Jensyn and Hurley experience the magic of the holiday. I am grateful for my Savior and for the love that He has shown to me. I am a very blessed mom and I have three amzing kids.