December has been full of some wonderful family traditions so far. The first one that we were able to enjoy together was giving unwrapped presents to the Bishops Store House. Can I just say that I have the best kids? Before we went to the store house we had Family Home evening and explained to the kids what we were doing. We then headed off to Target so they could pick out gifts to give. They never once whined or complained because they wanted the toys and I was so proud of them for that. We have done this the last few years and so I think they understand what its all about. It was a wonderful opportunity not only for our family but for our children. It was a wonderful lesson learned and something we will continue to do every year.
Having cookies and milk at The Bishops Storehouse
There were a lot of people there supporting our Stake and filling up these huge boxes with toys.
The next tradition we started just this year is "The Elf on the Shelf". Im sure most of you have heard me talk about this book already. I absolutely LOVE this tradition! We bought the book and read it. We then took out our elf which the kids named "Buddy" and set him on the shelf. Everynight Buddy flies home to Santa and reports the kids behavior. Every morning he hides in a new spot and the kids have to find him. The first thing they say when they wake up is "Wheres Buddy?". My kids love him to death and it has really helped them want to be good. 
Now.... this tradition is one of our favorites. Every year we go to Lorens work to see Santa and have milk and cookies. The kids get very excited to do this. They really get spoiled by Santa too! Every year they get a stocking full of goodies and toys to play with. The kids were happy and loved seeing Santa. Rowan ran up to him and have him a huge hug while Lia was a little bit more nervous. By the end she was hugging him but she wouldnt sit on his lap. 
Satuday night we went out to dinner with almost the whole Nielsen clan. This was a first but Im hoping that we can do this every year. We had a wonderful time at The Cheesecake Factory and enjoyed everyones company. The food was tasty and the Nielsens are always fun to be with. After dinner we went to see The Blindside and it was excellent! I love movies that make you feel good and inspire you to be a better person. Not many movies do that now a days. If you havent seen it...it is a must see movie!
For Family Night this week we made a gingerbread house. The kids were so excited to make it. They asked me all day long if it was time yet. I just bought a kit at the store and it was Ok. By the end... the roof was sliding off and it looked like it had been hit by Rita. Next year I want to make our own. I think it would turn out better and it would be WAY more fun!
Here are some pictures of the kids in their Christmas outfits. Every year I get them matching outfits to wear to church on the Sunday before Christmas. They looked adorable and it was fun getting them ready. One thing though...do girls ever stop crying when you do there hair or will this be neverending? Seriously!
Well....these are a few of our Christmas traditions. We still have more to come...the months not over yet! My sisters and brother are coming from out of town this year so I will have a lot more things to post about. I love all the family time we get to spend together every year. Im already not looking forward to after Christmas. I always feel down when its all over and everyone goes home. January is always tough for me! Lets hope for a better one this year!
Merry Christmas everyone!
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