Sunday, December 25, 2016

Christmas 2016

Alexa had the first Christmas party. Justin, Addison and I were all able to attend. We made gingerbread cookies, decorated houses, played games, and made ornaments. It was a fun time. Addison's school put on a show for Christmas. Addison practiced everyday leading up to her show. She picked out her favorite festive dress and wore her "dancing shoes." Addison's class had a bit of stage fright but still looked adorable. Addison really got into the group songs and sang loudly. I was sooo proud of Addison. She has come so far in the last few months.

The weekend before Christmas we did our annual trip to Williams, Arizona. We walked through the town for the first time. This year was the warmest by far over the last few years. We ate lunch at our favorite place before getting ready for the train ride. This year we wore Star Wars PJ, with matching hats and slippers. The girls loved all the extra attention that their PJ's attracted. Addison enjoyed the train circling the top of the restaurant. We even convinced Addison to smile for a picture with Santa. She wouldn't sit by him but she decided being in the row behind him with Dad was a good choice.

Once on the train we ate cookies, drank hot chocolate, sang lots of Christmas carols and saw Santa at the North Pole. Both girls had a great time. That night we all slept really well. Polar Express is always a high light of our year.

Back at home we made cookies with friends, had lots of play dates and enjoyed the warm break. On Christmas Eve, Papa & Ms. Barb joined us for church. The girls sang song and then entertained everyone sitting around us.

On Christmas morning the girls raced to the tree to open up their gifts. Santa left them both a new bike and Ms. Clause left donuts (Addison's favorite part). They opened toys, clothes, crafts for several hours. We truly feel blessed to be able to give our girls such a wonderful life. In the afternoon we went out to eat with Papa & then to the movies to see Sing. The family time was in abundance and our hearts could not be happier. It's probably been one of our best Christmases ever.