Merry Christmas 2017!

Merry Christmas! Yesterday was all about being together as a family and remembering the true meaning of the season. Today was all about the gifts! In the past, I have been bothered by how much I felt the kids focused on what they received rather than what they gave; while some of that still exists, they have come a long way in recognizing that Christmas isn't about getting something but rather giving something. The kids get excited when their siblings, Jeff or I open our gift from them. They consider the joy they give to others through our Christmas kindness tradition. They understand that it is truly better to give than to receive. Thus, it makes it more fun for us to give to them, trusting that they will show grace in receiving such gifts. I know Jonas doesn't understand all the meaning behind the Christmas holiday, but he does know the joy in unwrapping gifts! First off, he received a ride-on tractor from Santa! He was ecstatic! He rode it all morning. He would even sit on it to open his gifts or place the gifts in the front bucket. I loved seeing the joy on his face. Life couldn't have gotten any better for him.

Jonas used the "tools" he received from us to "fix" his tractor all morning!

After opening gifts, we had our traditional waffle breakfast (which is basically a sugary feast) then got to talk with Amber! It was good to see her. She seems to be doing really well and loving Pamplona. It has been amazing to see her transformation. She is gaining a solid foundation upon which to build for the rest of her life.

These are just the waffle toppings!

The rest of the day was much like yesterday. We simply relaxed and spent the day as a family. Jonas rode his tractor all day long! It wasn't often that we could convince him to get off. For a family gift, we received a high tech drone. Danny and Dallin spent the rest of the afternoon figuring out how it works...then getting it out of Katie's tree after Jeff accidentally crashed it there. Laurin enjoyed the relaxing day to catch up on some sleep. I got to talk to my sisters and Mom and Dad. I miss having them around. Still, I'm extremely grateful for modern technology that keeps us connected even if we're a state apart. All in all, it was a beautiful Christmas. I can't believe it's over...but it's time to move on towards 2018!