Christmas Eve

The day before Christmas Eve, we headed out to California to go to Grandma GG's. I can't tell you how excited the kids were. They were very helpful in helping me pack, and get everything ready. Chad and I (OK, mostly me), decided that we would get up at 4:00 a.m., and leave as soon as we could. We had the car all packed, we just had to throw in a few things, plus the kids, and off we went. I am soooo glad that we left that early because the kids slept through the worst roads, and didn't wake up for about 4 hours. It was so much easier to travel all day that way. We were so happy to get to Grandma's by 4:00, and have dinner, and then find a bed. We ended up staying at a ladies house, who has a loft above her garage, so Roy, Cody and their 6 kids, plus my family all stayed there. It was very nice, and the kids were so excited to have a sleep over with their cousins every night.

Christmas eve was filled with homemade doughnuts, lots of family, and food. My mom made the best prime rib, which Chad was very happy to eat to his hearts content. My whole family came down, so there were 21 of us, plus some of my cousins, and my Uncle Jim, Aunt Karen, and Uncle Rod. We had so much fun talking, but were ready to get to bed that night so we could get ready for Santa to come.

Good-bye Shana!

I am sad to report that my good friend Shana is moving. She is happy because she is moving back to Arizona, which she loves. We actually met in college, and ended up in the same town with quite a few of our old roommates, buddies. Occasionally we get together, and enjoy a late night chat and desert. We will all be sad to see her leave, but lets keep getting together girls, we always have so much fun!

Shana, Julie, Natalie and me

Christmas Eve, Eve, Eve

Before we left for California, we decided to open our presents from Chad's family, and give the kids a present from us. The less we had to pack, the better. The kids had a great time opening presents and were thrilled to get new clothes from Grandma and Grandpa, and a new sleeping bag from mom and dad. We decided that they would need a sleeping bag to sleep in during the trip, so it was a dual purpose gift. Grant could have cared less about anything, but I think he was happy to be in on the craziness!

Merry Christmas!!

We wanted to wish each of you a very Merry Christmas. We are on our way out of town for a Christmas Vacation that will not be forgotten for a long time. I know I didn't Christmas cards out again, but I will be getting something out after the New Year. There just doesn't seem to be enough time in the day anymore. I have enjoyed getting all of your cards, and I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season with family and friends. Merry Christmas!!

Clayson Family Christmas Party

On Saturday we had our annual Clayson Family Christmas party. It is always lots of fun. After our yummy dinner Santa made an appearance. I love this stage because the kids get so excited whenever they see Santa, except for Grant, he still thinks he is very scary! He was nice enough to bring them a coloring book, which was perfect for each of them. Next we played the left and right game, with a bunch of kids. Not highly recommended but, very funny. Finally the kids were able to open some presents, and were so excited. Claire told me, "these gifts are perfect for me." She got a couple ponies and some lip gloss. Owen got a Nerf gun, which has already caused havoc at our house, but so much fun for him. We look forward to the party next year!

Little Lamb

This year Claire started dancing with a new teacher, and I couldn't be happier. She is fantastic, and has a small company, so the recital isn't hours long. She has a dance studio in her house, and only has about 8 girls per class. Claire is lucky to be taking the class with two of her friends from our ward and from school - Cossette and Elise. It makes carpooling very nice when you only have to do it every few weeks. Her Christmas recital was to a Christmas song to Garth Brook called Mary Had a Little Lamb. The girls did a great job. Claire didn't quite understand what was going on during dress rehearsal, and only cried once. Once she got away from me and on stage, she did great! She definitely has lots of energy, and knew the dance pretty well. I was so proud of her.

My Snow Removal Workers

I thought this picture was priceless. One Sunday we got a lot of snow, and Chad's favorite job was available - shoveling snow. Owen loves to help shovel snow, so he jumped in to help. Chad had to go back to a meeting at church, so he put his boots on with his suit. I was laughing so hard, but am grateful that I didn't have to do it!