Christmas

This year was very different and hard for me. It is the first year I have been away from home for the holidays and I'm not so sure I like it. I am sure I will when I have my own children, but wow I missed my family and the snow!!! Christmas Eve we went over to Patrick and Wendys (Andy's brother and sister in law). Wendy's family all came over as well and we hung out in our pajamas, ate good food, then they had a little presentation for the kids.
Andy and Patrick made little mangers and Wendy bought little babies from the dollar store. Every child and our little family with no children got a baby and a manger. Patrick read a book called "The last straw" to all of the family (incredible book!) and explained how it depends on all of us to make Jesus' bed more comfortable by doing good deeds. Then we watched the part of "the nativity" movie where Christ is born. After that the children decorated cookies and made their own "gold, mur, and frankincense" for their baby Jesus, as well as colored a nativity scene picture.
It was really interesting how focused on Christ they were rather than the presents and all of the commercialized crap the world has come to. (It doesn't hurt that Wendy's dad is the stake president, lol) It was wonderful actually talking about the savior and the real meaning of Christmas on Christmas Eve. Being with family and remembering why we actually celebrate the holiday. My family was good at instilling the purpose but I don't remember doing anything that involved.
Anyway, Andy and I stayed there a little later than planned so I feel a little bad because "Santa" had to run to the shop WAY later than planned for the presents. :O


Christmas Morning Andy and I spent by ourselves opening stockings and gifts. I got a WII :) yay me!!! As well as a gorgeous necklace and I have to chose between going training with the Dolphins at Sea World or going on the Safari ride in the Wild Animal Park (inside the exhibit). I think I'm going to go with the dolphins. :) Andy didn't get so lucky because about two months ago I got too excited and bought him a 360. He got games and xbox live so he can play with his friends in Utah...kinda lame, but fun for him I guess. I think I'm the one that made out like a bandit. LOL!!!
Then we headed down to his dad's house and spent the rest of the day with him. It was a great Christmas, I just wish I could have spent more time with my family. I also wish I would have remembered to take the camera :( I will be getting the pictures from Wendy soon though and will post them. I am so lucky to have wonderful inlaws that make me feel like a part of the family and not be so lonely on Christmas. But even more lucky to have such an incredible husband!!!