Christmas Morning

This year we decorated our tree a little differently. I loved how it turned out. I know that I have a sweet little humble family room, but all decorated for Christmas it made me happy! On Christmas Eve Jon bring it down by the fire so we can celebrate Christmas morning by it. I liked it there so much I think next year we'll need to trees.


The girls were so excited. Tyli kept asking where Santa was. We had kept telling her that Santa was coming. Of course she was disappointed! She was planning on seeing him! Luckily she had all of her presents to distract her. The both got what they wanted. Ty had been asking for a Snow White dress and Madi wanted a Didj. Nothing like getting just what you wanted!

Christmas Eve '09

Every Christmas eve we visit the lights. It might be cold, but we love it. Then we come back to grandma's for a treasure hunt to look for our Christmas jammies and open cousin presents. This year we were accompanied by tired Jodi drama, but everyone was happy (namely me) my the end of the night.

Getting Ready for Santa and his Reindeer

On Christmas Eve day the girls and I were busy making preparations for Santa and his reindeer. We decorated cookies and put some water and food outside for the reindeer.

This year didn't seem very Christmassy. I don't know why, but I just found it difficult to get into the spirit very much. I found myself humming the song "Where are you Christmas? Why can't I find you?" more than any other carol. Maybe it was because Jon was working like crazy and I never saw him. Maybe because I was so overwhelmed with primary stuff that it was hard to make room for other things. I don't know the reason, but it just didn't really seem the same this year. Despite my scrouge attitude, the girls had a wonderful time and when it came down to the actual holiday, we got to be together and that was the best present of all.


Jon's family party helped a little. We had a "Bethlehem" theme. We wore costumes (at least everyone else did), had a special program, and had dinner picnic style on the floor. It was really fun visiting with everyone.



Jon was so exhausted that he seriously feel asleep in the middle of the floor in the middle of the party. He is zonked out!

Gabberts Together Forever

Scott and Jen finally got to be sealed to their baby in the temple. What a sweet special experience! It's just one of those times that you really can't recall what was said, but you just remember how you felt. I love seeing entire families together in the temple. What a small taste of what heaven will be like.
I was able to snap a few pictures after the sealing. (See photo blog for more pictures.) I just love seeing the joy that Scott and Jen have whenever they are with their sweet little baby. It makes me happy to see them like this.
After, they held the blessing at Jen's parents house. What an amazing thing to see this baby surrounded by so many people who love and adore her. I can see that she really is the star on both sides of the family. Who can resist such an adorable baby?
Jen had notes for people to write to the birth mom. I thought that was so nice! I am so grateful to this amazing person who made it possible for Scott and Jen to have this person in their lives. I can see that they really are different people because of this experience. Their happiness is contagious. I feel blessed as well to know she will be a part of all of us.

Thanksgiving

I can't believe that I haven't posted these pictures. That's what Thanksgiving day was, a day of pictures. I was just having so much fun taking pictures of my family. They were good sports and gave me lots of practice. We had a yummy dinner made by my mom and a relaxing afternoon. Super fun day!