Christmas Break!

Christmas break was quite the adventure, starting in Colorado. . Traveling with bags and bags and a toddler is always fun. Kanyin did so good on the plane, we were delayed in Philly and almost missed our flight to Grand Junction, but we ran and barely made it thankfully. Everyone except Raveen and Dave were there for the weekend before Christmas. We sure did miss them. We did all our regular traditions and had our "Christmas morning" the Sunday afternoon before Christmas, since us and Rydge and Lenore would be leaving before Christmas. Monday the 23rd we took the train from Grand Junction to Salt Lake City and stayed with Shawn's mom and step dad who are serving a mission doing family history. The train was awesome. It was two hours delayed so we didn't get in till 1 in the morning, but there was so much room and Kanyin fell asleep and we watched movies. Christmas eve we got to see where Elder and Sister Davis work and walked around Temple Square for a bit. We went back later that night to see the lights, which is always so amazing to see. On the real Christmas morning we opened presents and had a good breakfast together, then it was off to Idaho to see more family. We stayed at Shawn's sister Jennifer's house and met up a few more of the siblings and their families. It is always entertaining when we have time together. We even left all the kids one night and went to see Saving Mr. Banks, which was so so good! On Saturday we all went to the Logan temple together and then we said our goodbyes.We drove down to Orem Ut and stayed with Grandma Cooke and had dinner with family, which was so nice.  It was a successful and busy holiday season. Even though this time of year can be so crazy, we are most grateful for the reason for the season, the love and life of Jesus Christ.

we went on a little hike with Grandpa and Grandma "jacha"

Shawn got a little crazy

Papa and Kanny were Shawn's "spotters"

Meysa is in the high school Jazz band, so we went and listened to them play at lunch one day. 

Kanyin and Jacha being Meysa's cheerleaders

playdough time

Shawn and I snuck away on a date to Wal-mart.  I know so romantic. We decided to do sometime we never ever do and play the claw machine! We actually got something. I consider that a miracle. 

dance parties with Meysa

When Dez is around the piano is being played. Love it.

The two love birds

best buds

working on the Christmas tube

Ringing the bell/playing for Salvation Army. 

Mom and I actually stuffed the turkey. 

How kind of Kanyin to give uncle Rydgee a dirty diaper

Kanyin loved to sit and talk to Larry and chase the cats and pull on their tails. 

Rydge and Lenore made these blocks for Kanyin. So cool!!!

Kanyin (and Shawn) were both excited that Santa brought a train set.

Seeing where Grandma and Grandpa work

The view from the top of the Joseph Smith Memorial building

Kanyin had the time of her life here.

We also went to the new City Creek Mall to see the lights there. Amanda and I spotted the Tiffany's. We had to go take a peak. 

Temple Square

Christmas Morning!!! This little girl got a Mr. Potato head. 

Cousin time!