Merry Christmas

We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday! Wish we could be with everyone, but know we are thinking of all of you! From our family to yours,

Christmas program

The kids did a wonderful job at their Christmas program. They got all dressed up and were super excited. Delaney's class got to go first. They sang Red and Green, Up on the House Top, and Must be Santa. She did great! She was dancing her little heart out, we were all laughing so hard. Ben did a great job also. They sang Holiday Lights and Swingin' with Santa Claus. The song about the lights, they turn all the lights out and while the kids sing, they have different colored flashlights they move around together. It was pretty cool. We did not get pictures of the kids on stage, they just didn't turn out well. It was a great night though.

All lit up

We actually finished decorating the tree the day after we put it up. It just took me a while to post here. The kids are getting excited for the big day. Delaney is asking constantly if it is Christmas yet. This is the kids last week of school before the holiday. I am hoping to have everything done before that. (we'll see) This is Delaney's first year singing in the holiday program in school. I know she will do well. I will post later about that. Happy Holidays!!

Tree hunting

It's that time of year again when we pile in the truck, spend the $8 on a tree permit, and head out in search of the perfect tree. This year we went to the Crandall area. It is where Ben has been working for a while. After parking and getting out twice, we decided to head off the beaten path. We drove quite a way up into the mountain before seeing some trees off to our right. Instead of staying on the "road", Ben just heads that direction. There were some big dips in the road that you couldn't see because of the snow. Well we definitely felt them! Everyone came out of their seats and then we were cracking up. It is always an adventure when we decide to find our tree. Ben was a good sport this year. I am only slightly picky when it comes to the tree. He will probably tell it differently!

Thanksgiving Vacation

After a total of about 48 accumulated hours in the truck over a 10-day period, we made it home in one piece. It was great being able to see everyone. The kids had so much fun playing with all of their cousins and catching up with all the other relatives as well. I am so surprised how much all of the kids have grown since I last saw them. We had a blast going out with all of our friends with a night of dinner and dancing. I wish we could do it more often. Hopefully it will not be so long before we venture out that way again. The 17 hour (one way) trip doesn't get any easier, but well worth it. Thanks Grandma Byers for the care package on the return trip. It was a lifesaver! As you can see by the pictures, even the beef jerky became quality entertainment.

Delaney's report card

Laney's parent-teacher conference was great. All kids take tests in October to score them on reading and math to see if they need help or advanced work. On both tests she scored above-average! She is in the top reading group for kids already reading a little. Her teacher was so happy with her work and her attitude in class. I am so happy that Laney loves school and is excited to go every day.

Ben's report card

We went to Ben's parent-teacher conference last night. He has a great teacher this year and Ben likes her also. His reading has improved so much since the summer! Now he is in the 70% reading range. He is also in the highest math group in the class. She commented on how inquisitive he is and hungry to learn about anything. He received all A's and B's! All he needs to work on now is not talking so much in class!!! We are so proud of him. Tomorrow we are meeting with Laney's teacher and will let everyone know how it goes.