Christmas Eve

Since my parents went on their mission, Christmas Eve has become a small family evening, and I LOVE it! We do the big party the Sunday before, which leaves this night open for a more intimate gathering! Mom and Dad are the temple presidents in Manti and weren't sure if they were going to be around because the temple doesn't close for 2 weeks like the Provo temple does. But a week before, they found out that they could come up after the morning sessions ended and I invited them to dinner. I seem to not be able to get enough of them these days and I want my kids to know them and love them like I do. So we were grateful to have them...plus Granpa P is crazy and makes us all laugh! So who wouldn't want him around. Before the party started we tried to take some self timer pictures and this first one was without Hans, but it's the only one you can see Rock's face....

Goofy Tru, not sure what he's trying to say....

Here's the happy group with our festive table...Hans brought me home these gerber daisy's that day and I thought they added the perfect pop of yellow (my fave color)! It now is January 7th and I still have a bouquet of 5 in a vase on my counter! I've never had flowers stay alive that long!

The true personalities come out!

Next we pulled our traditional British Crackers (Rock was so afraid they were going to be loud, he ran into the other room, but came back as soon as he realized they were as loud as a snap!) and put on our party hats, told the awful but funny jokes and poured our drinks!

It was a fun relaxing dinner that we all enjoyed! I always loved having a baby in the house, but it truly is becoming so fun to sit at a table and have fun conversations with the whole family. I'm loving this stage of my family!

Then I wanted a picture with my Mom and Dad and the rolling pin. It is right over my right shoulder! But more than the rolling pin, I love that I have a picture with 2 of my most favorite people! Man isn't my Mom gorgeous... Dad you always look hot!

The evening wound down and Mom and Dad went home to their Orem house and we settled the kids in the basement with movies, blankets and pillows. Little sleep was to be had!
Merry Christmas little family!