Christmas 2011

I have to admit that although we tried, Christmas was almost pushed aside this year.  We were up to our ears in packing, remodeling, and generally pulling the house apart in every other corner.  We set up our tree with about 50% of the normal ornaments and the nativity scene.  The rest of the Christmas decor was left in its totes in the shed.  Here are a few shots of what amount of Christmas we did celebrate.

 The tree. 

 The nativity scene.  Funny side note about this set...  Before we were married David and I bought this nativity scene, along with some other big ticket items at a garage sale.

 We went to the Snowflake 2nd Ward Christmas party.

 On Christmas Eve, a secret elf knocked at the door and left five wonderful gifts for my five wonderful kids.  The kids LOVED them, and we loved the goodness of an angel that knew we were having a harried holiday, and thought to brighten it a little bit.  THANK YOU to whoever you are.  We are grateful.

 Santa Claus came to our house!  And before you think that we spoil our kids rotten, you should know that 90% of this was socks, underwear, jeans, and long sleeved shirts, in preparation for our move to Montana!

 Aubrey at her 2nd grade Christmas program.  She was a jingle bell dancer and did a super cute dance routine!  She is a natural performer.

 Nathan, posing after his performance at the Snowflake Christmas Spectacular.  He was in a boys choir that sang two numbers at the show.  He practiced hard, and performed well!

And the last of our holiday spirit is Emily at her 1st grade Christmas program.  She got to hold a candle in the song "Little Candle Fire".  So sweet.

I am sad that Christmas was on the back burner for our family this year.  I hope to make up for it a bit next Christmas.  We took the tree and nativity set down the day after Christmas.  That is when the HUGE push to get things done and going happened.  I am so proud of my great kids.  They have all really showed resiliency and acceptance with all the insanity and upheaval of the last couple months.  I have the worlds greatest kids!!