Christmas Eve

Today is Christmas Eve and cleaned out the garage.  I was trying to catch up my blog but ended up in the garage with Larry and the kids.  We threw away a bunch of stuff.  We had about 4 truck loads to get rid of.  I'm in the mood to simply and get rid of unused things.  Larry makes it happen faster and I know why.  He just piles it all up and dumps it in the field.  I go through things when I downsize and throw it away or DI it.  You can only do so much doing it like me because there is only so much room in the garbage can or vehicle.  Getting things cleaned up a bit sure refreshes the soul.  I had cleaned my room the day or so before and man it's nice.  Cleanliness and order really is good for the soul.  I need to go through more.

Our reward was dinner at Laferrovia.  We knew they were open and had decided that we would go there anyway.  I took them a few caramel apples that I had made for them.  The owners are just such good people and have become dear friends.  We noticed that there was something going on outside and was told that Kokomo's was feeding the homeless and have been for years.  They were cooking right outside and I was touched by their thoughtfulness.  I was touched again when Tim, our waiter came and wished us a Merry Christmas instead of bringing us a bill for our meal.  I got tears in my eyes. Josephina (not sure the spelling) came out and told us that our meal was on them.  I got more tears and told her that we wanted to support them today but she insisted.  What good people!  I'm going to take care of people's meals this next year.  I know that I will have enough to do so and I want to make others as happy as we were.

Family Christmas Party

One of my very favorite family traditions is our family Christmas Party.  When the kids were all small we always gathered on Christmas Eve and talked about Jesus and his birth.  Now we do that more throughout the month.  I think we will add the Nativity to our party next year though.  We have a good time.  We eat together but not the same thing every year.  I use to try to make a nice dinner but now everyone brings something and this year we kept it simple.  We had hamburgers.  We had to keep things moving along though because Zaden's dad was picking him up.

We had Zaden open his gifts first.  Since Parker was getting the same thing he got to join Zaden.  I bet Zaden loved getting to go first and he just finished when his daddy came. Trichelle has already requested when we should have our family party next year so that her kids can be here the whole time.  It's scheduled for Wednesday, December 20, 2017.  It's on the calendar.  We've learned that it's necessary to be flexible with some traditions.  We still have a family party but it's not always on the same day.  I'm okay with that especially if we can plan it for a year a head.

The grands exchange gifts. They draw names at Thanksgiving to see who they get.  I love watching them exchange.  It's so fun because they love giving to each other.  It was fun watching the little ones get into opening their gifts.  Behr loved it this year and was such a helper throwing away the wrapping paper. Even the twins seemed to enjoy it.  Everyone was happy with their gifts.  These kids are just grateful and appreciate everything.  I thought I knew my grands and their favorite colors but when the girls opened their mermaid blankets I learned I was wrong.  I had Kam and Mya's favorite colors mixed up.  I could tell by their faces and when I mentioned it they quickly traded and were both happy as could be.

My kids rotate on who they buy for.  I always enjoy seeing what they choose for each other.  They are very thoughtful.  It's just a lot of fun for me and them.  One tradition I started with my kids is that they each get their own box of cereal for Christmas.  It was an inexpensive way to get them one more gift to open and they always enjoyed it.  Now the grands get a box of cereal.  I thought it was funny this year when we got a  homemade card from Kamryn as part of our gift thanking us for everything and specifically said her cereal.  I remember after Kevin got married when he asked if he was still going to get cereal.  I end it for my kids when they marry but continue it with the grands and those still unmarried. I've had a few friends hear of us doing that and have added it to their traditions...which makes me smile.

I love my house being filled with our cute family.  I love the commotion and joyful noise that accompanies them.  My heart if filled with gratitude and love for each individual.  It's such a fun journey.  This year I talked to a few family members about adding to our family party.  There have been times that we have played games, or decorated cookies and I was wondering if we should do those things again.  But when it comes right down to it, I notice that what everyone really loves is just being together.  They will stop and do extra things but seriously I think just visiting and being together is their favorite thing.

Our neighbors were doing a live Nativity and I was so excited.  I love talking about the Nativity and seeing it acted out.  I really thought it would be fun for our family to go and watch it.  I know a few were on board when I first mentioned it but when it came time to go everyone was too content just doing what they were doing.  I was hoping just one person would say they really wanted to go with me but I only had one say they were good either way.  I seriously considered just going by myself and figured no one would even know I had but then I just thought I should stay home and enjoy my family.  I'm hoping that next year they will do it again and that I will be able to go.

(their pictures of the Nativity)

I must say though that this year I have been able to do most of the things I had wanted to.  I have really enjoyed this Holiday Season.  I have met with friends and we have had our parties with our families.  I have enjoyed the wonderful Christmas music and lights.  It's been a perfect season of celebrating.  I even did a few things for strangers and decided that I will continue those things throughout the year.  I get a good feeling when I am nice to others. haha ☺

So Much Always Happening

I went bowling today and I must say .... I have the "deerest" friends.  They are a lot of fun to bowl with and they are all just great friends.  We were #1 when we started but I bet we lost that spot by the end of the day.  We only won our first game.  It's fun though and worrying about what place we are makes it too stressful for me and takes the fun out of it.

After bowling I helped Carla make caramel apples for her neighbors.  She was thrilled with how they turned out.  I was going to get a pedicure but decided that could wait for another day.

Trichelle closed on her house today and needed to finish up some shopping and so she brought the kids over to play.  Trichelle and TJ actually went and made an offer on another home in South Ogden while they were out and about.  They are making goals and making them happen.

Larry stayed after work and helped Justin on a trailer that is going to Colorado.  I took Zaden with me to the Christmas Program that Hal and Joyce Stoddard put on.  Tonight one of the Sealers from the temple was suppose to talk but he was too sick and so another guy that Hal knows from the Temple shared some things instead.  I did see Brother Ballif and Brother & Sister Peterson there though and it was fun seeing them outside of the Temple.  I've grown to love those people and I think they feel the same way about us.

Since we have moved to Hooper I have heard about the Organ in the Stoddard barn but tonight was the first time I have seen and heard it.  There were pipes all the way around the barn and so it was like surround sound.  It's an air pipe organ and ran by air.  The barn was warm and cozy and needs to remain at the same temperature year round.  Hal and Joyce have lots of pictures all around and so there was plenty to look at.  Zaden enjoyed the program and the music.  We sang some Christmas songs at one point and I asked Zaden if he knew those songs and his reply was "I'm more of a game boy."  I let him know it would be okay to love many things.  It was fun having a night out with Zaden.  When I took him home I got to listen to Trichelle and TJ share their excitement of everything....they are so focused right now.  (I love it)

Wonderful Wednesday

I went to the Temple...and I love it!  I love getting up and starting my day off at the Temple.  I think I will do it more often in 2017.  It just makes me feel so wonderful.  Today there were people with the last name of Saint Bernard....that made me smile.  The hour went really fast and we were in the same sealing room that I was sealed to my parents.  We were in that room last week too and I think it's because the sun isn't bright and shiny this time of year so the patrons don't get blinded by it.  I'm so thankful that we have temples so close...I love being there.

I took Carla to lunch for her birthday.  We went to the Olive Garden. She wasn't sure she really wanted to go because she's the type of gal that thinks once the day is over it's over.  I think having a birthday in December would be harder.  I'm glad mine is in the summer and can be celebrated all month and into the next. ☺ We went to a few stores afterwards so Carla could get more supplies to make more caramel apples. A lady looked at me and told me I was pretty as we were walking by her...then she told Carla too.  Carla   text me later saying that the apples her and Roger made didn't quite turn out like the ones we did at our party...oh well...they'll taste wonderful!

Kimi had invited our family to the movies tonight and we were all able to go.  She invited Trichelle and Zaden too and since Trichelle sold her house she decided to treat everyone as a Thank You.  Trichelle didn't even end up coming to the show (we saw Sing) because she had been sick and was tired.  TJ brought Zaden instead.  It was a cute show and the music was fun.  I was dancing in my seat a lot.  I loved that we had time to go to a show.  This month as been busy but not stressful.  We have a lot going on and if we make it great but if we can't that's okay too.  If we wouldn't have gone to the show we would have gone to the ward Larry is over and enjoyed their "light walk".  They had paper bags lining the walking path that each family helped decorate.  We drove past it and it was cool looking.

I love having neighbors and friends stop by this time of year.  Last night we Pat stopped by and we went to a few neighbors to deliver gifts too.  Tonight LaDawn came over.  I really enjoy these little visits. I'm so thankful for lasting friendships.  Life is Good!

Ropelato Family Christmas Party

We had our Ropelato Family Christmas Party tonight.  I love that we still get together with Larry's parents and siblings and their families.  I am so glad that Jerry has a nice, big place to host our party and that Darinda organizes everything so well.  Those two really do take good care of us.  This year instead of me assigning everyone things to bring we made it simple.  Gramps makes such BIG pans of lasagna that we had him do that.  We also asked Erin to bring one just in case his isn't enough...it was enough.  Erin makes a yummy lasagna where us older sisters might prefer to just buy one. ☺  We then just had everyone else bring a salad, rolls or dessert.  It worked out great!  We had plenty of everything and no stress.  I made jello jigglers this year and they were a hit.  The food was yummy but the company was better.

I rotated around the tables so that I could at least see everyone.  I like staying connected and wast to be sure to take advantage of these times since they don't happen but once a year now.  Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves.  Larry's cousin, Wendy and her hubby and son with his family joined us tonight.  Larry's other cousin Dan and his wife did as well.  I am glad they did...the more the merrier.

 After dinner, Darinda got out the Nativity costumes and the little ones dressed up.  I love looking up and seeing all the little angles.  Our family is short on boys this generation...we only have a few and so this year even Joseph was a girl.☺  I love including the Nativity in our Christmas Celebration since that is what Christmas is all about.  I think the little's enjoy it too.  Larry was the narrator and was prepared with his reading glasses.  Darinda has asked him for years now and so he came prepared.

 Santa visited after the kids did the Nativity and the only little that wasn't real thrilled was our little Sadie.  She was frightened and hid her cute face in her mommy's shoulder until he was gone.  I remember last year the little ones that were about her age were the same way.  (she's 20 months)  Santa brings the kids cute socks which isn't really a surprise to them but they all enjoy getting their gifts.

Everyone helped clean up...or at least were suppose to help.  Actually we got off easy this year because Jerry had us leave a lot of the tables and chairs up since he was going to use them in the following days.  It was a fun night.

I love watching everyone grow up and interact.  My cute niece, Kaylee made my night.  She came up to me and started talking and mentioned that she had read the book I wrote about Jared's experience and ours.  She was touched by it and made sure to tell me.  She doesn't know how much that meant to me.  I always remember who approaches me and especially when they compliment me.  I left feeling happy and thankful.

Sista Christmas Party

Oh my heck...I have such fun friends.  We met at Carla's for our Christmas Party.  Since I learned to make caramel apples from Lisa it was decided that I should teach everyone else.  I was okay with that because since Lisa taught me I have made over 20.  I know what I'm doing.  I tried to remember all the tricks Lisa taught me so I could teach everyone else.  I think that lesson went well.  The apples were made and looked lovely by the time we were done.  Have I mentioned how fun my friends are?

We had a little lunch before we got started on the apples.  We had pizza and salad and a few desserts.  I made Carla a rice krispie cupcake since her birthday was yesterday and she loves rice krispies.  

A few weeks ago Carla and I bought everyone a Christmas Stocking and  we had them hanging on the chairs.  We all brought gifts to fill them. I really thought that was a fun idea.  We had a fun variety of gifts.  The gift I had bought didn't get put in the stockings because I didn't think I had enough.  I did have enough though because a few gals that said they were coming didn't show up.  I decided I will give them to those that came anyway.  They were little fans you plug into your phone to cool you off.  A "cool" gift for gals my age.

 After enjoying our lunch I demonstrated how to make the caramel apples.  We washed the apples before in vinegar water to help remove the wax.  Everyone made their apple as we went.  The caramel was soft and worked really well.  Getting the caramel on the apples went much smoother than it has for me.  Next we dipped and sprinkled cinnamon sugar on them.  I melted the white chocolate and explained that you didn't want it too thick but nice and creamy.  Everyone dipped their apples and the chocolate remained good for them all.  Jodi double dipped her apple and so her chocolate was much thicker.  She wanted it smooth. I have noticed that sometimes the apple isn't as smooth as I would like but once they are done it isn't noticeable.  Piping the colors on the top was hilarious to me.  It isn't as easy as it looks.  However, the sprinkles kind of disguise that too.  I think they all turned out well when we were done.  We put them in cute bags and added ribbon and they were perfect for gift giving.

We had to take a few more pictures before everyone left.  I love having pictures though because they help me remember all the fun we had.  Those cute aprons we are wearing were in our stockings along with a pillow case, chocolate cinnamon bears, chocolate bar and Santa bell, a pez dispenser, a chocolate wand from Harry Potter world in Florida, and a mitten coin purse. It was pretty fun having a stocking full of surprises.

  

I love my friends and I'm glad that we all enjoy making memories together.  I think getting together with family and friends is one of the things that makes this time of year so wonderful.  It's about Love and Sharing it with Others!

Spiritual Sunday

I must say at this time of year there is so much to remember and sometimes I forget.  Even if I have written it down because if I don't remember to look where it was written then...you know...I don't remember.  Today that happened.  I went to church and enjoyed listening to Heidi Mead report about her mission.  I have watched this cute girl grow and I was even her visiting teacher for years and her mission has been so good for her.  She is so much more confident and out going.  She will always be a bit shy and reserved but it's evident that she believes in herself.  The spirit was great and I loved hearing her message.

Immediately after our meeting we left to go listen to our cute niece, Jackie Ropelato report on her mission.  As we were driving I mentioned to Larry that Justin had mentioned that he was speaking in his ward today.  He didn't invite us but had just told me yesterday when I told him about Jackie speaking.  That's when Larry reminded me that Jaydan too was speaking today.  I had written it down on the calendar and even put it in my phone about Jaydan but that was a few weeks ago and I didn't remember.  Dang...I felt so bad.  Jaydan's church was a 9:00 and so it was over.  I text him and told him that I was sorry and that I just didn't look at the calendar and my mind has been on overload for a few weeks.  I'm sure Jaydan and Justin did great because they are great kids.

Jackie's ward was interesting.  They started late and didn't get through with the sacrament until 20 minutes to the hour.  They had 12 deacons passing the sacrament and still had to prepare and bless a few more trays of water.  There were a lot of people visiting that ward today. Not only was Jackie reporting on her mission but they had another Sister Missionary talking that was just leaving.  That gal talked until 12:00 which technically left Jackie with 5 minutes.  I was anxious at the end of the other gals talk...I wanted her to end and she even said she needed to cut things short but I didn't notice it happening.  She thanked each person in her family in detail.  My blood pressure was rising.  I really wanted to hear from Jackie.  When Jackie did get to speak she did a great job.  She didn't seem stressed about the time being gone and she reported on her mission very nicely.  She took about 15 minutes and I was glad.  Her talk was perfect and her spirit was strong.  She served a great mission.

I love listening to others speak about how the Gospel of Jesus Christ changes peoples lives.  I love seeing it happen.  It's true ... it does!  When we are following Christ and letting God guide us and direct us, life is pretty darn good.  I love the Gospel and Know it's true!  No Questions About It!

***Larry and I stopped by the Meads later that night and had a nice visit with their family.  As we were leaving a few nice things were shared with us that sure made me feel good.  Lorraine shared that when her and Kevin went to get his visa for his mission, my sister in law had helped them.  She told Kevin that she was the gal that Larry talked about when he told the young men not to have girl friends before their missions.  Larry's brother married the gal he left home just weeks before Larry got home.  Kevin pondered that and then said something like...Larry got the better deal.  Kevin just smiled as his mom told me and I high-fived him.  Then Lance told me that he had always thought I was one of the better looking Lakette's in High School.  Sweet!  It was nice hearing and I can't imagine ever getting tired or bored of hearing nice things.  It's those little acts of kindness that matter just as much as a big one.