Snow for Christmas

Southfork '10

Unfortunately, we had to leave Flagstaff with its 2 feet of beautiful snow

in order to be with family for Christmas.

Of course, family is more important than snow

but we have all been a little heart broken not to have a

White Christmas.

On Christmas Eve morning the boys set out to find snow in the mountains.

3 Dads, 5 Boys, and Rubie went up to Aspen Grove

and actually found enough snow to do some sledding.

Aspen Grove '11

Seeing how it was very cold and the hill was in the shade,

they did not last super long but had a lot of fun nonetheless.

Finally, Max is old enough to really be able to enjoy the snow

for more than 20 minutes. Yay!

(Thank you for all the great hand-me-downs.

Good gear makes a big difference.)

Noah is usually heading for the jumps

trying to get as much air as possible.

Upon their return

we had a very nice (rather) calm and simple Christmas Eve:

playing

making gingerbread cookies with Grandma

cooking and baking

trampoline jumping

eating Portuguese chicken, rice, and veggies

singing Christmas songs

reading Christmas stories

enjoying apple crisp and ice cream

opening one present each

Then this little guy went to bed

and Noah helped me put the presents under the tree.

It was fun to see him so very excited.

We don't believe in Santa around here and I like it that way.

Santa does not bring presents in Germany and

I have never been a fan of fairy tales or make-believe.

Without Santa,

credit goes where credit is due

and there is no need to tell lies.

I don't dislike Santa. Not at all.

So please don't dislike me.

We, as a family, have just decided to focus on different traditions.

The kids are in heaven!

Noah just finished putting together his Playmobil Fire Station

and exclaimed:

"Christmas is the best day ever!"

Then he quickly added:

"Not just because of the presents.

Because it is Jesus' birthday!"

Although it is hard for him to think of anything but his new toys,

he, too, knows the true meaning of Christmas.

We are so grateful for the Birth of our Savior!

Merry Christmas to All!