Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas. . .

Every year we spend so much time getting ready for Christmas. We decorate and put our tree up on Thanksgiving weekend and for the next few weeks, I bake and bake and bake. It seems like so much time is spent preparing for one day. But this year I was determined to make it more meaningful than years before. Since Christmas is just a magical time of year but has such a special meaning I committed myself to bring the two together. Every Monday we had A Family Home Evening that told about the real meaning of Christmas. And for once we didn't go crazy buying gifts.

The kids each got a handful of gifts. And when the gifts were all opened we were able to enjoy the day together as a family.

Joseph and Nathan got a Wii, Tommy got a playdough set, and Ava got a purse filled with accessories every girl needs.

Nathan got his snowboard.
When I asked him what he thought Santa was going to bring him, all he would say is
"a snowboard, because I asked him to."
He wanted nothing more.
(oh and even though he may not look excited he is. He spend several hours with his boots on and getting in and out of the snowboard)

Safety first in snowboarding. A new Spongebob helmet!

The only candy Santa brought was a large candy cane in each stocking.

When Tommy finally realized he got new playdough he was so excited. He played with it all day.

He also got his own guitar.

christmas wouldn't be complete without getting ready for snowboarding.

Joseph got Ava a crown from the Santa shop he had at school. He said he had to get her this crown because "she is his little princess"

Joseph also got Tony Hawk Ride for his new Wii.

Auntie Kim and Rob came in the Afternoon.

Kim brought Joseph a new Bionicle  vehicle.
Thanks Auntie Kim!

And for Nathan and Tommy she gave them a new work bench.

And here she is opening her gift from us.

Ava needed a break from all the excitement, so Tommy kept her company and
 wouldn't t leave her side.