A Fun December

Wow how times fly! It is December already. I had so many great plans for this last year and didn't quite reach my mark, but oh well...I'll update you on our life.

Brandon comes home from his mission in Detroit, Michigan on Dec. 31 at 1:55. We won't have him for Christmas, but soon after. We are just thrilled he is almost home. I REALLY miss him especially since Jennifer got home. He has had a great experience and has even stayed alive being held up at gunpoint several times. Yea, I wasn't supposed to know about that, but brothers have big mouths!!
We'll get you all the details later.

This is such a fun time for Sydney since she old enough to "get it" this Christmas. Jennifer and Marissa took her to the Festival of Trees and she loves Christmas trees now! I got a small on for her room and we all decorated it on Saturday. She was so cute when she saw our blow up snowmen family for the first time. She jumped up and down, clapped her hands and yelled "Oh my goodness, oh my goodness"! What a cutie.

Preston had a piano recital on Saturday and played "Somewhere in My Memory" from the movie Home Alone. What a beautiful song and he did a great job. I love recitals because everyone is scared and still pulls off such great performances. I am glad he is sticking to his lessons. He has a talent for the piano and I hope he keeps on playing.

We went last Wednesday to a fireside with Elaine S. Dalton, LDS General Young Women's President, in Marissa's stake. Marissa directed the choir and they did beautifully. I love to watch her conduct. She is fun and graceful and so poised. Yea, that mommy pride is showing! Sis. Dalton spoke on transitions in our lives. She spoke about how angels are there to help us on our way in each transition we make, school, marriage, children, callings, all sorts. It was wonderful. She also said when we get down and discouraged, to say the Young Women's theme in our heads..."I am a daughter of a Heavenly Father who LOVES ME..." Oh what a great reminder of that each and every day.

I love Christmas! The tree is up, the house is decorated, (mostly) and I am even doing my Christmas shopping! I look forward to seeing many of you at this special time of year. Have a great December.