Our Little Family Christmas Party

It's Christmas at our House!  I love our family Christmas Parties.  I love my family!  We had a yummy Christmas Dinner on fine china and we used some fancy crystal too.  Only one glass got broke and that was by me after it was washed and ready to put away.  (I bumped it with my elbow)

After dinner the kids were ready to share gifts with each other.  (Kimleighel was as excited as anyone)  Before we opened gifts we talked about Jesus and his birth and also his life.  It wasn't long but everyone listened and participated.  It was worthwhile and good.  Then we shared gifts with each other.  Everyone was thrilled with the gifts they received. (or acted like it)  I got a little emotional when the kids gave us gifts.  I really don't expect anything and so it makes me teary when they are so thoughtful.

There were more gift giving than normal because Larry got involved this year.  He was feeling the "Christmas Spirit" I guess and had a few things wrapped for everyone.  It was actually pretty cool!
                                  
                                  

The kids busied themselves with their new toys.  They loved everything...even the babies really liked what their cousins chose for them.  It was fun watching everyone.

After we went in the other room and played the same game that we did with the leaders of our Stake.  I must say we have talent in our family.  Everyone worked together and made some pretty cute little TP animals.

                                 

We also played the game with the baby food and Braxton and Kelsi got them all right!  They are ready to be parents! ☺  It was such a fun night.

Mya and Parker slept over because Macie had doctor appointments in the morning.  I felt kind of bad when Ivy found out they were staying and wanted to stay too.  I guess it's time for another cousin sleep over.  The kids slept by the Christmas Tree and Mya went right out.  I thought Parker had too but after awhile I thought I could hear moving and so I got up to check.  Parker was busy putting hand gel on everything.  He put little dots of his blue gel on ornaments, decorations, the train, the window seal, a few gifts and the piano.  He pointed at my high shelf and told me that he didn't get any up there because he couldn't reach.  He was nervous to tell me what he was doing when I discovered him.  He was afraid of getting in trouble.  I told him he wasn't and that I just needed to know where he had put the gel.  I was impressed that he knew what ornaments and everywhere else....it was everywhere.  I got most of it cleaned up and then Parker told me that maybe I should turn the tree lights off so he couldn't see. ☺  Funny, little guy!  He did stay in bed after that and I did find more gel dots in the morning. TeeHee

weekly tidbits

I painted the grands blocks on Monday...a little Santa workshop going on in my kitchen
Tuesday I went to the Temple as soon as I dropped the kids off at the bus.  I did an endowment session and really prefer initiatory.  (it's so much faster)  We have so many names though that I need to just plan on spending more time in the Temple. (I need to invite others to help me ☺) Then I met Jodi for lunch.

*Wednesday I took Carla to breakfast for her birthday which is Thursday.  Carla decided on Moore's so we could have breakfast or lunch.  I went to the Moore's in Roy and Carla was at the Moore's in Ogden.  Thank goodness for cell phones.  We both sat for a minute and wondered where the other was since we are never late.  I ended up going to where Carla was since I had never been to that one before.  It only took about 6 minutes to get to the right one.  We had a good time but didn't have long because I needed to get home and Carla was going to work.  I'm thankful that Carla and I have become good friends.  She is fun, caring, creative, kind and pretty wonderful!

My visiting teachers came today.  I love these two and I'm so thankful that they are mine for the time being.  They love me and they're just pretty darn cool.  I always feel so good when they are here.

                                    

Jared had piano and so I rode along (since he only has a permit) and I got to play with my cute little grands while he had his lesson.  Santa greeted me when we pulled up. Parker is creative and made his hat and beard so he could wear them.  He's such a cutie...and so are his sisters.

When we got home from piano a few more cuties were at my house.  Oh they all make my heart smile.  Little people are so amazing.  They learn so quickly.  They light up the room.  They love unconditional.  They are a piece of Heaven right here on Earth.

I finished the Temple plaques for the grands and the ornaments.  I felt inspired to base this Christmas around the Temple.  I love the Temple and all that it symbolizes.

***Thursday Carla and I dressed up for bowling. I took a few props for Debbie and she is a good sport and wore them.  I love being crazy and I really loved Carla's creative sweater that she did.  We went to a store afterwards and I could see others smile. ☺ I love making others smile!

For SNAP a few Tremonton Wards came and helped us out.  They showed Rudolph and had popcorn.  They made little bowls for their popcorn and Santa visited us.  I loved listening to the participants talk to Santa.  Most didn't care what they received.  They love Santa and were so excited to see and talk to him.  These kids teach me so much...they are truly the pure in heart. It's the simple things in life that matter to them. They require very little to be happy!

I knew a few of the leaders from Tremonton and that made it fun for me.  One gal, Cindy, remembers me from when I sold Lunds Lite Candles.  She friended me on facebook and that is how I recognized her. It was a fun night!  The other leader grew up in Hooper and was Trichelle's age. (Hazen Cridle)

 Friday we went bowling again and were still a little festive.  I love bowling and being around all the fun ladies.  I laughed when the gal taking our picture in the window told me that  Susan with the Santa hat reminder her of ET among the stuffed toys. After bowling I met Mallory, Kathy and Julie for lunch.  I also met Carly before so I could buy more yummy mixes from her.  It's always fun being with my friends.  Friends are a symbol of Christmas because friends are love!

Saturday morning the Relief Society had a Christmas breakfast and program.  It was decorated so cute and there were quite a few that showed up.  I took Kimleighel and Kelsi with me.  I like having older girls to go with me...it's fun.  There were drawings for prizes and us Ropelato girl's were lucky ducks today...we all got a prize.  Robin was also sitting at our table and got a prize.  I love Relief Society and being around the women in my ward.  We have talent and lot's of love shared. 

Larry and I went to the Temple since he was feeling bored and hadn't been for awhile.  I'm loving all the time I am spending at the Temple.  I love strengthening my spirit.  I love feeling the spirit.

I love this Wonderful Time of the Year! The Spirit of Christ is felt so abundantly!  

Sharing/ Caring

Jodi and I managed to get in one more lunch date before Christmas...we are going to try again next week.  Sometimes I like the one on one with friends.  You can really pour your heart out about your true feelings.  I like doing this with Jodi because we totally understand each other and think and feel the same way about things.  It's comforting to me to have her understand.  I know it works both ways.  It's also very nice knowing that we won't judge each other in a negative way.  The time always flies...we could talk for days...weeks!  I admire this twinsee of mine.  I always leave feeling better and with the desire to be better.

Jodi's hubby was just made their Stake President and she is feeling a little "pressure" with this call.  I hope she just continues being her fun, "spunky", happy self.   God loves her just the way she is and He is the one that matters.  We worry so much about pleasing others.  I guess that is just part of life and learning.  I hated trying to "fit" the role image of a few callings.  Each time though I just tried to remember that Heavenly Father knew me before I was called and I was good enough the way I was.  I do believe we do change with callings...but I think it's more of an internal change that others might not really see unless they are super close to us.  Heavenly Father gets us where he wants us on His time.  He is who matters!

I loved hearing the details of the calling.  I love how we can receive inspiration so quickly.  I love how Heavenly Father prepares us for our next "steps".  Heavenly Father is very aware of all of us and really does guide us...if we ask and listen and obey.  I love Jodi!  Jodi is a great example and I know that others admire and respect her.  Jodi and her hubby will serve their Stake well!

***One thing that we had mentioned today was menopause...who would have ever thought we'd reach it or talk about it.  A few years back I lost the little bit of waist I had.  I had changed nothing but my body did.  The pants I could wear for years didn't fit and it ticked me off...and I couldn't figure out why.....menopause is the reason.  It happens...the body changes.  I had never quite thought about it but I do believe that is it.  I am determined to fix the changes and do the best with what I have to work with.  My squatty body needs some adjustment.  I know the results will be different than what I was use to but or would really want but I am learning to accept things for what they are. (my short waist is even shorter...at least 2 inches...I can still work with that)

relaxing...really?

I can't believe that we actually took the time at this busy time of year to stop and watch a few movies.  That's right we watched two.  Carla had mentioned that we should have a movie day and I took her up on it.  I went to her house at noon and so I was able to get things done in the morning before I went...laundry and painting.  Carla had lots of yummy left overs from her party the night before and so we ate a few of them.  She told me to come in my comfy clothes and she told me she was going to wear her dog jammies.  She always wears them the week of her birthday. (her birthday is Thurs) We relaxed and had a great time.

Carla and Roger love dogs and have six.  They are cute dogs and we let them in after the first movie.  The weather is so nice that Carla had them in the back yard.  The little ones were all over us and it was almost impossible to eat a treat.  I gave one dog a piece of popcorn after I knew it was okay for them to have.  I learned that it's important to be fair even with dogs and so the only treats the dogs got after that were the ones they hurried and stole.  Her little black dog got away with a few treats.  He cracked me up...as soon as Carla wasn't looking he'd eat a treat.

The first movie we watched was Elf...it's my favorite.  After that we watched White Christmas and I realized even though I have heard of the movie, I had never watched it.  It was fun "chillin" with Carla.  She's a great friend and a fun host.  She loves having people over and entertaining.  Her house is so nice and comfy.  We talked about starting a Movie Club...hopefully we do!

Ropelato Family Party

This year Erin volunteered to organize our Christmas Party.  I was thrilled.  I think I am a little burnt out after doing it every other year for many, many years now.  I love getting together with Larry's parents and siblings and their kids.  I just love family things that get us together.  I love watching the little one's interact with each other as they make memories.  You can see the love they share with each other.  Erin and Scott had everything set up.  We went a half an hour early to help but it was done earlier in the day.  Erin even had tables set up with activities for the kids. It worked out great.  The kids had a fun time.

 I laughed when everyone started getting their food and sitting down.  Jerry's family went to the far table.  Brent's was at the end of the table Jerry's.  Wayne's family sat on the middle tables and so did a few of the cousins.  My family sat at the end of the table by the food and at the head of that table mom, Clark and Wendy made their place.  We seldom mix it up.  I guess that's okay and means we like our individual families.  I ate and made a point to go visit the other families.  I really like them all.

I guess Christmas parties are for the kids and they certainly enjoyed themselves.  They ate and played and giggled and ran around and were so cute.  I couldn't help but take lots of pictures and smile. ☺

We had a visitor!  Santa Claus came and gave each of the kids a gift.  The kids sat so good and waited patiently for their turns.  Santa kept handing Parker candy canes to give to everyone...Parker was happy to help out.  I noticed that the little's around a year were the ones leery of Santa.  I think a few of the little's hearts sped up as they were taken close to Santa.  Macie quickly looked and reached for Mallory who had set her on Santa's lap.  London (Kaylie's baby) was the most vocal and clung to her mommy.  The gifts are socks and I know my grands are always excited about getting them.  Trichelle had to get her kids gifts since it's their weekends with their daddy's. I got Kimleighel's for her since she had to go to the High School for a Dickens Festival that she had to sing and help with.

When Santa left the little ones got dressed to reenact the Nativity.  This year Parker got to be Joseph.  He looked so proud.  (we are short on boys this generation)  Mya was an angel, Kamryn was a shepherd, and Jordyn was a lamb.  The Nativity makes me smile every year.  I know the little ones love doing this.  I love it and I always remember back through the years when their parents were the ones doing it.  The Nativity is a favorite tradition of mine.  I can't imagine ever being tired of seeing the children act out the Christmas story!  I simply love all the children...they are all so sweet and cute.

It was a fun night.  It was wonderful having Wendy (Larry's cousin) and her hubby join us.  I am thankful for Christmas.  I am thankful for family traditions.  I am thankful for family.  I am thankful for the birth of Jesus Christ.  I am thankful for His example and life and for the love he showed to each of us through the atonement.  I am thankful that at this time of year the vast majority of the world acknowledges and praises Him....that's why it's the most wonderful time of the year!

Weekly Tidbits...This and That

*Sunday our family watched the First Presidency Christmas Devotional and we invited the Sister Missionaries to join us.  We played some quick games of Christmas Bingo after.  I had bought a bunch of little gifts and a bunch of Candy Canes.  We played and let a few people win before we cleared off the cards.  It was fun and fast.  I wish we would have had more time.
*Monday I wrapped gifts all day and then treated myself to a pedicure before shopping with Larry.
*Tuesday morning I went to the temple and did 9 family names.(initiatory) I was able to do the last four because there weren't sisters waiting and I had time.  When I got through with the last four there were sisters waiting.  I love going to the temple.

I went visiting teaching and ended up going alone because Mindy had to catch a flight to Vegas to drive Kenzie home because she broke her arm.  I am really enjoying the change in visiting teaching.  I love my partner and the sisters I get to go visit.  I'm back to loving it. ☺

After visiting teaching Carla came and picked me up so I could go with her to buy a few gift cards.  We decided to go to lunch first since we were both hungry.  I love this girl and had a great time going with her.  She makes me feel so good.  I think we will be hanging out more often.

*Wed...I got the 12 days of Christmas tags ready and most the things bought to go with them.  We are doing the Sister Missionaries and Connor.  I really love doing this and so glad that Larry suggested it.  He told me that he hears the excitement in my voice when I talk about it.  I just have to say that it takes a lot of time getting it all ready! I spent quite a few hours Wed and Thurs getting things ready. But it worth it because I know it's going to "brighten" their Christmas.  I imagine being away from home at Christmas is hard and having your mom gone is even harder.  I hope this simple act of kindness helps make their Christmas better.

I went and visited Crystal in the Hospital.  My cute friend has had a rough year and got one more surgery in since she has reached her deductible.  I have missed Crystal this year and love her to pieces.  She has always been a wonderful friend to me. (she's family)
After visiting Crystal I met Mallory and Kathy for lunch so we could exchange gifts....we are going to meet again next Friday just because we want to. (Julie Dixon is joining us)  Funny Story....Mallory was telling us how she had left her car running when I met her at the Boutique to pay her for the piano.  Her key was in her pocket and she was sure that she had locked her door and she might have tried but these days the doors won't lock if the car is running or the keys are in it.  We were laughing and then Kathy noticed that she couldn't find her keys.  We joked and said they were probably in her car.  I needed to leave and when I went out I noticed her car was running....and it had been for 2 hours.  She didn't believe me when I called and told her...we met outside and laughed our guts out....I really thought I might pee my pants.  It was hilarious ... more so because we had just been talking about it.  I need to really be careful and check to make sure my car is off.
*Thursday I bowled and had a Christmas party with my fun book club. I also got my hair done and was over the activity for SNAP.  We talked about the meaning of the Candy Cane.  I read the story "The Legend of the Candy Cane" and then the gals made candy canes with beads and pipe cleaners.  They also made a fridge magnet with a clothespin so they could display "The Legend of the Candy Cane Poem" I had for them. We modge podged the clothespin with red/white striped paper. It was fun and when I got home I had two cute little grand babies waiting to play with me.  It was a fun filled day.

*Friday I went bowling and had a great day. I bowled a 450 series...my best for quite a while.

We took the sisters to lunch.  We went to LaFerrovia because it's our favorite...the sisters loved it too.  Larry had invited one of his friends to come too but his friend is avoiding the missionaries.  I told Larry he has tried and his friend can't say he wasn't asked....he's been asked plenty by Larry.  Larry ran with me to return the book I borrowed (about the candy cane) and then we went to Costco again because I forgot 2 of the 3 envelopes of pictures I ordered. (I went there after bowling and only got one...ugh)  I forget that they put different sizes in different envelopes.  We came home and wrapped the Twelve Days of Christmas gifts and a few others.  We got a lot done.

The Ward Larry is over had their Christmas Party early Saturday morning.  They served breakfast at 8:30...actually it was closer to 9:00 because not too many were there at 8:30.  My favorite part was listening to the cute primary kids sing Christmas songs.  I love both so much!    They had a few prizes for those that wore funny sweaters.  A cute little girls won for the kids but it was because she was so cute...no ugly sweater on her.  Bishop Foster (the last Bishop of the Ward) won for the adults.  His sweater had working lights...he wore a few big ornaments and had a large bow just above his bottom.  Hands down his was the best!  

As soon as breakfast was over we left to run a few gifts to some friends.  We stopped and bought flowers for Dave's grave. Saturday the 13th is Dave's "Angelversary".  Larry misses Dave so much...Dave truly was Larry's best friend.  We shed a few tears and then went to drop a gift off to Vicky.  We barely caught her before she left for SLC.  She had grands performing in the Dicken's Festival.  I'm glad we did see her and it was good to see that see was busy doing fun things.  I love Vicky so much...I admire her in every way.

When we were getting flowers for Dave, Larry noticed an arrangement in the back and asked if he could buy it.  It was a special order and he couldn't so he bought this one and added a few white roses so it looked similar to the other one....he bought it for me!  He  told the lady that it had been awhile since I had roses.  I told her it had only been a month...I'm spoiled!  They made it home safe but I didn't take another picture. I like this one any way...we had them seat belted to keep them safe. ☺

Book Club Christmas Party

I look forward to my Book Club Christmas Party every year.  We always have the best time and laughs.  The food is always super delicious.  We have some great cooks in this group.  I thought everything looked very festive.  Susan volunteered to have it at her house because she is going to sell it and is building another one east of here. (smaller with less property)  I told her she will need to have our Party at her house again next year since it will be a New House....she had told her siblings the same thing after having them over last week.  We had enough food for a dozen more people...we're not so good at figuring out how much to bring.

 The "White Elephant" gift exchange always makes me laugh.  This year I was laughing before anyone even had a gift.  We couldn't decide how to choose and when we thought we had it figured out we realized a few of us were on different pages...communicating wasn't happening.  We ended up drawing a number between 1 and 5.  We lined the presents up and called them 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.  Number one took 1 and so forth.  We opened them as we picked them.  We went around the group again after opening and number one could trade her gift for any of the others. Shanna loved the cookie jar she got and threatened us not to steal it.  I was number 4 and so far no one had traded.  Suzie was holding a Elvis Presley mug and I knew Susan (who had number 5) wanted to trade it.  If she did Suzie would end up with the gift she brought and so I traded Suzie.  I gave her the cute "kotex slippers" I had got for the Elvis mug.  Susan then traded me for the mug and I got a video "Grandma got ran over by a Reindeer" and a cute reindeer candy thing that Suzie had brought.  Kathy got the Santa Apron and cook book I brought and Shanna did get to keep the cookie jar that Kathy had brought.  I always enjoy seeing what others come up with for their gifts.  We exchanged friend gifts with each other too.  I gave everyone ear muffs and gloves because I know it's going to get cold. (we are enjoying temps over 50 right now...unheard of...in fact Susan's son went boating this week and her grands wake boarded...crazy!) Susan gave us cute salt and pepper shakers.  Shanna gave us all a book.  Suzie had scarfs for each of us and a shower gel.  Kathy had a cute little book that you scratched to discover an activity to do during the Holidays and she also gave us a cute Nativity ornament.  We all laughed because the price tag covered the back of the ornament and was still on each one. ☺

This is a favorite tradition of mine.  We missed Loretta who is serving a mission but we didn't forget her....she was remembered in our conversations.  I love this group of ladies...we're all so different but mesh together rather well.