Christmas, Christmas time is here...

Tell me you got my pun in my title and are now singing...'time for joy, and time for cheer", in the voice of the chipmunks? Alright, maybe thats just me. Anywho, of course the Christmas Eve ritual is always the same, so I will spare a ton of details. You know the drill...Lights, Cookies, Nativity play, presents....

Lets just skip to the pictures, shall we.

This year, we decided to try some new cookies. You've seen their kind. Checkers and swirls. Well, they required a few drops of food color to make them pretty so we snapped on some gloves and kneaded away until the color was mixed in perfectly. Of course, Madi claimed green...

Alissa and Katelin worked in the red, and the chocolate.

Zack and Brylee got a chance to get their hands dirty too. Thats the fun part, right?

While the cookies baked, we engaged in a little dramatic enterp. You know which one, but can you guess who is playing who?

In this scene, you will see Joseph consoling Mary after he finds out she is pregnant.

Brylee insisted on being baby Jesus, even though we told her she was too big. She laid there for about 10 seconds.

Ryan and I switched places this year, and he played King Herod, and Madi and I were the wise women. If you look in the group picture, you will notice, Madi even made a beard for herself using her hair. Silly girl. Oh, and yes, we also doubled as a shepherds.

Up next, like always-the Christmas Eve present opening. Since I made the PJ's earlier to use for our Christmas Cards, they got something else relating to bed time, and a new book.

Brylee got a new Tangled blanket and Elephant and Piggie Books. Like I mentioned before, Mo Willems is my favorite Childrens book author, and these books top the list.

Zack received Perry the Platypus slippers, and some different Elephant Piggie books.

Alissa got a robe...and Elephant Piggie books. There are quite a few...I think we have the complete set now. (:

Katelin also got a robe, and a different Mo Willems book-Knuffle Bunny Free. So cute, it makes me cry. The book I mean, but Katelin is cute too.

And Madi also got a robe, and shockingly, not a Mo Willems book. This one is by Glenn Beck. Good Christmas Story.

I still got PJ pants, just because I needed them.

And Ryan cant sleep in "confining clothing", so he got a pair of athletic shorts. Dont ask me why he is wearing them on his face. He must miss the warmth of his November beard. (:

And, in case you didnt see our Christmas PJ's picture because well....you didnt get a Christmas card...here are a few of those too, including a few extras as well.

The Silly Pose
The Faces pose
The kids that look like they love each other pose
The family pose
And the train pose

Finally the 4 hour cookies were done, and ready for Santa. Think he can eat all those?

Some sleeping did occur, although not much...and then it was that magical time at 5 AM to go downstairs to see if you made the naughty or nice list.

Zacks first visual...a new sled! Too bad we havent had any snow this year. He'll have to use his imagination for now.
Oreo enjoyed the sled rope.
As tradition states, the order of present opening goes from youngest to oldest. Normally the kids exchange names for who to buy for. This year however, on top of the names, I had a couple kids who went the extra mile and bought gifts for everyone with their own money. Youll see who when you get to their list of goods. (;

First up, as youngest Taylor participant: Brylee. She got her own barbie Stuff from Santa (since her sisters dont like to share theirs).
Okay, pictures must be out of order.

Santa brought Katelin a camera...
Madi, a kindle...
Zack, a "big truck" remote control hummer...
and Alissa got tangled barbie stuff.
I will spare you all the pictures, but I had to get some huggy ones.

Madi and Katelin got a Pictionary DS game to share.
Alissa got Katelin an I-Carly DS game. She likes it, if you couldnt tell.
And then we hit the point in the morning where disappointment struck. Short back story: Brylee loves Dora. All season long, she was talking about getting a Dora doll. Santa wasnt getting credit for this one! But what was her reaction when she opened the gift?...

Yeah. Isnt that the saddest face you've ever seen? What up with that!? Needless to say, she decided to take a break from gifts for a while. She'll return later.

Zack, however loved every one of his gifts. I think Brylee liked his better too.

Here is something else he really wished for, a ball you can bounce on.
Cant leave out Oreo. He got kitty treats, and some gourmet canned cat food (since normally he gets the cheap dry stuff).
Now this is the response we all hope for after deliberating, fighting crowds, and going broke...
Madi got the complete Harry Potter Movie set. Well, minus the last one. Mom and Dad took credit for that one too. Although, she knows we really get credit for all of them.

And then came time for the present of all presents. They all got to open this one at the same time, because it was basically the same thing. Zack was confused by how he should use the dog bones. Yuck.

Yes, thats right...surprise! We are getting a dog. Zack still trying to figure it out by reading the fine print. "What the heck did you get me dog bones for!?"

After seeing all that happiness, Brylee decided to return and try her luck again. She opened the present from Katelin this time. We're in luck! She likes it. Okay, maybe Christmas isnt so bad after all.

After Church, Brylee and Zack put their toys to good use. Zack climbed inside his truck box and Brylee held him hostage with his laser gun. "Dont shoot! Im innocent!"

Now for the final loot pictures.

Madi
From "Santa": Kindle (which I just noticed is not shown here...hmmm.), DS Pictionary, Wii Minute to Win it Game, stocking stuff

From Mom and Dad: Harry Potter Movies

From Zack: Kuponk game

From Alissa: pen she wanted

From Katelin: homemade word search and picture.

Katelin
From Santa: camera, DS Pictionary, Horton hears a Who movie, Stocking Stuff

From Mom and Dad: Clothes for her "American Girl" doll

From Alissa: I-Carly DS game

From Madi: silly bands

Alissa
From Santa: Tangled Barbie set, barbie movie, leapster game, Stocking stuff

From Mom and Dad: Barbie Clothes

From Zack: Barbie Movie

From Madi: Zooble

Zack
From Santa: Hummer Remote control Car, Cars 2, Leapster game, stocking stuff

From Mom and Dad: Ball to bounce on...what are those called!? (Not shown here)

From Madi: Laser gun, Spiderman action figures, dinosaur

From Alissa: Airplane shooter

Brylee

From santa: Barbie Teacher set, Planet 51 movie, Brainy Smurf, Stocking stuff

From Mom and Dad: Dora Doll (flop)

From Katelin: Bed Time Dog

From Madi: Cinderella mice figures

From Alissa: Crown and wand

Family Gifts
From Santa: board games, sled

From Mom and Dad: A DOG...to be adopted at a later date.

From Uncle Willie and Aunt Tina: Christ picture, game

From Tiff and Steve: Brownie Mix, snowman with hand towels

From Grandma and Grandpa H.: Movies, 3D bookmarks, St.George Pomagranites (yum)

From Grandma and Grandpa T: Gift card

Ryan and I didnt pose for pictures this year, but Santa brought us a new Blue Ray Player, and a Dell Tablet, which has finally introduced us to the craze of Angry Birds. Ryan actually seems quite addicted to it, which is not a normal thing. Madi got Ryan some juggling balls and a squeezy stress person thing. I got him a new shaver. Madi got me a locket necklace, and Ryan got me a BYU hoodie, and also an early gift of a new Washer and Dryer. I dont think our clothes were actually getting clean until now. So nice.

So that wraps it up. Another Christmas in the bag!

Hope yours was great too!

We believe...or do we?

During the normal holiday season, we dont get out much to see Santa. We have one non-believer and 3 scaredy cats. This year however, we had 3 opportunities to visit the big guy. This first one, you have already seen, but Ill let you compare it with the other two and decide for yourself who is the real Santa, and who are impostors!

Santa #1: The church Santa

Santa #2: Christmas Street Santa

Santa #3: Dentist Santa...just look at those sparkly whites!

Well now, I dont know about you but I vote for #3. Maybe thats because we know personally #1...and #2...well he comes out every year out of the goodness of his heart to raise money for mental illness. He and his wife and "reindeer" made this little box house and sit out on their front lawn and let the kids visit them for free as they walk around Christmas street and see the lights. All they ask is for a voluntary donation. #3, dont know where the dentist found him, but he looks pretty authentic to me...real beard and everything. After seeing his smile, I would venture out and bet he is maybe doing some trade work for the good ol doctor. Either way, the kids got a full body dive into warming up to santa. Hey, why do things half way, right?

Christmas day post coming up...if I can ever take a break from babysitting the most exciting present ever!

And the winner is...

Just a quick post to inform all who are interested...

Ryan was called to be the 2nd counselor in the bishopric today. Its been a long few weeks of speculation after our bishop got called to be Stake President. Before we even left the Stake Center after that announcement was made, Ryan started getting razzed about taking his place as bishop. It only got worse the next day at work of all places, since he rides to work with 3 other members of our ward, and works with 4 total. Could'nt even get a break at work...poor guy. But at last the bantering can stop. He is not the bishop, but in fact one of his counselors, and he is excited and blessed to be able to serve with some awesome men. It will be a great Bishopric!

It was an emotional day, mostly for me. Dont know why, but every time someone would congratulate, or comment to me about it, the water works would start. Then after church the new bishopric and their families were invited in to be a part of the sustainings. I was a little concerned about having our 5 kids in the crowded bishops office after having them already sit through 3 hours of church, and being hungry and ready to leave. I questioned it a few times..."are you sure? You're sure you really want them ALL in here?" Turns out I was the one who was being disruptive, as I let out sobs as Ryan was ordained a high priest and sustained as the counselor. I turned out to be grateful that I had Brylee on my lap to hide my embarrassment behind, as I sat and wondered what in the world was wrong with me. None of the other people were crying...why was I? And loudly too. I didnt feel emotional...I just couldnt stop! To make it worse, we had to return later in the day to face all the same people I had just embarrassed myself in front of like a hysterical cry baby. Ughhh...

I guess all I have left to say is...it wasnt a shock to me that he was put in this position. It wouldnt have been a shock if he was called as Bishop (Some day). He is and always has been a faithful, worthy, strong, unwavering follower of Christ. He is the rock in our family. He is the rock in our marriage. He keeps us on the straight and narrow and always proves to be a shining example to us. I know he will do great things in this calling and for the people of our ward as he serves with all his being. He has dived in, and is ready to go. His only regret at this moment is that he truly loved his last calling as the Young Men President. He built strong relationships and bonds with those boys over the last 3 years. I know he was the same kind of example to them as he is to us. He keeps reminiscing about the good times they had together...at activities, dances, in Nauvoo, during drives in his old trusty civic, in the classroom as they discussed gospel principles. He is happy he will be able to work with them still in a different capacity. Im sure he will continue to be involved with them as often as he can.

Congratulations on this new step in your life babe! You are gonna rock!

And I will be taking on the kids solo during sacrament meeting. Wish me luck!

Now if only I can keep it together!!!!!

Baby Girl turns 3

All the excitement, the anticipation, the ever changing color of the cake choices...it all led up to this day...Brylees birthday! And mom cant possibly make something...anything, without a little assistance. It just wouldnt turn out right if they left her to do it on her own. Her assistants today...Brylee settled on the choice of a vanilla confetti cake. But dont worry, she made up for the lack of chocolate with her chocolate oreo ice cream. And after many frosting choices, decided it should be pink...no purple...no...blue! "Maybe you should just make Zack his own blue cake mom." Honestly, thats what she said. Isnt she thoughtful? Or brain washed.

Before we see what she decided, lets open presents. If you know Brylee...which I doubt, because she closes up like a clam outside of this house...you know she LOVES books! This was her first present. See...its not lame at all...she's happy about it! This book in particular is magic. It allows you to change a yellow dot just with the touch of your finger, or blow of your lips. Pretty. Cool.

Next up...

a less exciting game. "Ehhh..."

"But whats this?"

"Princess paint and color set! Thats better."

"And you have got to be kidding me! My own laptop!?"

"All I can do is point and squeel...Eeeeeee!"

Okay, you've been so patient. Here is the final cake. Pink and purple with sprinkles and Dora. That'll work. Just dont look at the back. Mom didnt have help with that, so the frosting was a little...off.

"The candles are pretty, but youve got another thing coming if you think Im going to blow on them."

Good thing for helpful sisters or we would have had a waxtastrophe on our hands. Brylee would not go near that dangerous flame! What are you thinking Mom and Dad!? Placing fire in front of a little girl like that?!

All safe. Now give me some chocolate.

The spoon was taking too long...she decided to dig in doggie style.

And then use the spoon to be silly instead...

And to save the best for last...the balloons! This next picture is my favorite! If only I could still find this much joy out of something so simple as a balloon! Ahhh, to be 3 again.

And just like that, she turned 3.

Happy Birthday to our happy, bubbly, sweet, adorable little girl.

A little catching up

Thanksgiving has past, but I would like to take this moment to thank you all for being so patient with my obvious flaw of procrastination. I know that even though you have all moved on to thoughts of jingle bells and sugar plumbs, that you will humor me with a little interest in what has already past in every one elses thoughts. With that in mind-didnt we just do this? Seriously, shouldnt it be like June still? Am I the only one who thinks this year has flown by faster than any other year ever experienced? Did someone push a fast forward button on our lives and it got stuck!? Anyway, enough of a peek inside my inner thoughts. On to....yes, thats right-Thanksgiving!

I wont keep you for long. Its all pretty self explanatory, as far as a Thanksgiving goes. I do have to start by saying however, that Ryan did manage to get his annual Turkey Bowl game organized, and even got Madi to join them this year. I was a little worried, because she gets hurt just by looking at a sharp object. Lo and Behold about 2 hours in I get a call from her. 'Oh, here it goes, she has injured herself on Thanksgiving of all days.' But what do I hear on the other line? "Mom, dad fell and hit his head really hard, and hes not getting up, and he wont answer anyone. I think he might be dying. Can you come!? " Dont panic, she exaggerates as much as she injures herself. After a few questions, I find out they are on their way home, and he isnt in fact, dead. He did take a good fall though, right on the back of his hard skull. He came home with a decent headache, and a little dizziness...pretty much for the rest of the day. He is pretty sure he got a mild concussion though. Helmets, boys...helmets!

Anyway, I told you I wouldnt keep you, and there I went. I will wrap it up quick now, promise. But really, its just not thanksgiving without a little football injury right? So after Ryan had rested and I had cooked (with a few little assistants), we were ready to medicate our stomachs with gross amounts of food.

All done!

Katelin made sure we had out thankful basket ready to go.

Is it just me, or does Zack look like he's thinking..."Why am I stuck with all these girls?"

Ryan was well enough to slice a turkey, so he must be okay. Have to say, this was our best turkey yet. It stayed moist and flavorful. I just may learn yet!

And the grand finale:PIES! Only 6 this year...(:

Apple, Chocolate Puddin, Real chocolate, Pecan, Almond Cheesecake, and Pumpkin.

And yes, we ate them all! Not in one day, but all. Dont Judge, I know your just jealous. Or not.

And thats the end of thanksgiving. That wasnt so bad, right?

Oh, but here comes more...and you thought you were done reading this post!

To kick off Christmas, our ward held their annual breakfast with Santa event. Well, except this year it was Brunch with Santa. We found that out after showing up an hour early. But at least we got dibbs on Table #1, so we could be the first to stuff our faces. (: Afterwards, it was time to greet the Big Man...and I know we were at church, but Im not talking about the Man upstairs. No, its Santa. And for another tid bit into my inner thoughts...Am I the only one that thinks its sac-religious to end the Church Christmas Celebration with a visit from Santa Claus? Maybe. But this year, more than others, I find myself seething over this guy. I refused to put any of his decorations up in my house this year. If someone can give me some insight on how Santa makes Christmas better, please do.

Well, at least the kids were amused.

I think Brylee did pretty well this year, seeing how last year, she wouldnt even look at the guy.

A friendly handshake will suffice...oh, and bring me something good, will ya?

Katelin was sure she knew who was under the suit. Who knows...maybe she was right. Brother Sladek...is that you? Yes, yes it is. But dont tell...he makes an adorable Santa, dont ya think?
Later that night, the 3 older ones and I indulged in a little spinning and...well... just spinning to the tune of the nutcracker. The elementary school put on the performance, so the girls had to go see their friends who were in it. I was a little disappointed there was no speaking involved, but Alissa seemed to enjoy it. No pictures though, Ryan stole the camera to snap some memories of this:

Two very excited little boys got to ride in a boat for a parade! A friend approached Ryan and asked him if we were interested in filling the boat for his company. I know, right...who does a parade in December in Wisconsin? Well hey, why not? We're in! We gave the girls the option of what they wanted to do, but the nutcracker won out. So Ryan grabbed another friend to help fill in, and they went to freeze together. Looks like they enjoyed it though, and its probably the only time they will ever be in a hundred of thousands dollar boat.

I think they enjoyed watching the people, as opposed to waving at them.

Ah...I stand corrected. Isnt he cute?

And Brylee had a little help with her wave as well.

So now that the Christmas season is kicked off, I will see you again in late January...well, thats a lie. Brylee's birthday is coming up first! Up above...unless you already read that- then shame on you for viewing it out of order. Actually, thats just the way blogger works, so what are ya gonna do? Happy ThanksChristmas!