California and back again

 This year I had the worst start to a trip ever. We left two and a half hours after I had planned. BOO!!! There was a storm, trouble with the rental car, basketball practice. In the end it was fine it just meant a really long day. As hard as it was to get out of Utah the roads were dry which was so nice. Nancy joined me. It always a treat to travel with her. This year I didn't even pack my nice camera. That meant I didn't take many pictures. So fun seeing these two cuties. Love them so much!

I had Ben and Katie this year and I got the kids sleeping bags and pajamas. Not the most "fun" present, but practical.

 My mom has a really beautiful Christmas tree! The kids thought it was so funny that she had an apple ornament. It was hilarious how funny it was to them.

Christmas Eve. Sporting the pajamas their parents got them. Such cuties. It is really challenging to get 4 little, tired kids to look at the camera.

The weather in Oroville was amazing. No rain. Mid 60's and 70's everyday. That alone was such a treat, not to mention all the treats I ate. I love spending time with my parents. I feel so blessed. I was able to see immediate and extended family as well as visit with a few friends. I hate that my trips are so short and that I always miss so many people that come to town after Christmas. What do you do?

The sign of a successful Christmas Day is one worn out puppy. She has been so lazy since we have gotten home. I think she is worn out form all the attention she got.

One of my favorite activities was going to this movie with the little girls:

I loved the movie. The girls loved it and it was so much fun to watch them during the movie. I have been listening to the soundtrack since. So fun!

I was also able to see Saving Mr. Banks.

I really enjoyed this show. It was very fascinating to learn about Mary Poppins.

The trip back to Utah was great! Again the roads were clear. Anthony got me the olloclip lens for my phone. I didn't really get to do much with it until I got back to Provo. It has been fun to play around with.

 Last night Dan, Anthony, and I went grocery shopping and my car would not start. So annoying!!!!! We spent a really long time in the parking lot. Dan's roomate came to give us a jump. It didn't work. Finally I just called my roadside assistance. They wanted to just tow it but I asked him to try to give us a jump first. Despite Anthony insisted that there was no way it was a battery problem. It started and after an hour lost we were on our way. Breaking down in the winter is no Bueno.

Today I was so lucky to have Sariah come visit. She only had a couple of hours but I have not seen her in years. I also had never met her sweet baby boy Dylan. It is always a treat to catch up in person. I love that we can easily catch up. My years on my mission and at BYU with her were so fun. I am blessed to have her as a lifelong friend.

 Moki mid yawn.

My Mom made the best soup while I was home. I made it tonight. It has so many vegetables to chop. I felt like other than church I spent the day in the kitchen. Afterwards it looked like a tornado had gone through. I am pretty sure it is the dirtiest my kitchen has ever been. Do you ever feel like food just isn't as good when you cook it? The soup was great but I enjoyed it so much more when my mom slaved over it all day instead of me. How sad is that?

This Christmas season I have felt so grateful for the blessings the Lord has provided. My family is safe. They all have work. We are somewhat healthy. All blessings that can change so quickly. The Lord has really blessed my life and I am so grateful.

So excited to have a week to recoup from traveling. This week I have basketball and a long list of things to get in order before I head back to work.