Jones Christmas Party

December 20th, 2008

We had our annual family party last Saturday. Of course, the high point was when Santa surprised us with a visit. He came in and immediately took off his heavy coat and hat, explaining that it is extremely cold where he lives, so it seems really warm here.

Everyone got a chance to sit on his lap and tell what they wanted for Christmas. He remembered what Rach wanted, since she told him a week before at our ward Christmas party.

He finished off with his "Naughty/Nice List." He talked to each one about the things he knew about that they were doing good or bad. He reminded them that they still had a few days before Christmas to fix any bad habits or attitudes. Lots of praise was given, of course!

When he was done with the kids, we played a game with him, and he left enough time for family pictures with him.

I had to include this adorable picture of my great-niece, Carly. Grandma couldn't be left out, and a picture with all of the kids.

This is our famous Christmas cake inlaid with pictures of our dinner. It was yummy!

The Pinata was another high-point of the day. My brother, Dean, gave the final blow since it was his birthday. Candy scattered and kids were everywhere. It was a lot of fun to watch.

We tried a new game this year call Broom Hockey. It looked like a lot of fun, except for the broom that got broken. I guess that's to be expected from this game.

Bingo was the finale, but not to worry...the "Left-Right Game" will return next year for sure!

Home for Christmas!

We were very excited to see Shaun after 2 months at Basic Training. He was able to come home for 2 weeks for Christmas. After that, he goes back for another 4 weeks.

Look at this happy family - together again. While I was trying to get a picture of Shaun and Isabel, she started crying, so Shaun made a sad face to match hers. During their visit to my house, I don't think I ever saw Lisa without a smile on her face. She has been missing him.

Family Pictures

I have finally caught up on the blog. Now I can post when something actually happens. I would like to thank my daughter (in-law), Kimberlee for doing our family pictures on such a tight schedule. We only had a few hours in which we could get all of MY kids together when everyone was present. Tim was home from working in North Dakota for the weekend, and Shaun was leaving on Monday to South Carolina for Basic Training. Thanks for getting it done when you didn't feel very well! Thanks to everyone for working with me so I could have a current picture before everyone left. Now...to get Gary's kids together. Whew!

Family Gingerbread House Making

We started a tradition a few years ago to get together (usually on Thanksgiving) and make gingerbread houses. Last Sunday was the day we got together and the majority of our kids were able to participate. Everyone brought a plate of homemade treats, and we switched them around so that everyone got some of each treat. That way we ended up with a variety of goodies to take home.

Everyone had a great time. There was a lot of visiting and laughing going on. There is no better feeling than having my family together! It's fun to see them having such a good time together.

I love the picture of Jake and Ty working together. Ty is a "little Jake" spend time with him. Lisa and Stacie worked VERY hard on their houses...

I LOVE THIS PICTURE! Our grandkids had an absolute ball with each other!!!! They helped each other, and they were extremely excited to decorate their own little houses.

Mike and Liz joined us a little late, but still had a good time. Rach and Aubrey helped Brandi with her house. Look what a great job they did! Brandi was happy with it.

Tami and her friend made a great house as well. Chandler is working hard on his house.

Manda and her roommates and friends came down from Logan to see the lights at Temple Square, so they were able to participate with us as well.

Even Rhyder and Isabel got in on the action. As you can see, Rhyder had other activities in mind. So typical!

This is SO Chan!!! I love his great big smile. Isn't his house awesome? He made it all by himself!

These kids love to be together. I had to snap a few of their happy little faces. There's nothing better than to have our kids together. We enjoyed ourselves as well! I love my family so much! Aren't they wonderful!

Ward Christmas Party

December 6, 2008

I just thought this picture of Rachael with Santa was cute.

Venice, Italy

May 13, 2008We spent 1 day in Venice. It was really pretty and NO TRAFFIC! It is really weird to see water for streets, boats for taxis and buses - even police cars. We took a gondola ride with the kids.

Bergamo, Italy

May 12, 2008

Gary's work took him from Milan to a quaint, little town called Bergamo. It has a lot of history, so we had a great time learning. While Gary was working, the kids and I went shopping and walking around the town a bit.