Pre-Christmas

Our Pre-Christmas celebrations were varied this year and I was grateful for every one. 

We visited temple square as a family. Wow! I only just barely got David in this picture. We almost lost him several times that night. He just won't stay with the group......

My crew. Such a good looking group. 

Our main purpose in going to Temple Square was to use the Light The World vending machines as a family. It was such a good experience and the kids got to purchase some great items for people who are not as blessed as they are. It's definitely something I would like to do again next year. 

Rebekah refused to be in the picture because the nice man taking it was male. For a girl with four brothers and a loving father she sure has a problem when it comes to Heavenly Father's sons. 

Pink built a tower with the nativity blocks. She looks pretty happy with herself. 

Look! We finally have a mantle for our stockings! They are just lovely and they may be my most favorite Christmas decoration!

Before school was out for Christmas break, David had a kindergarten concert that he was supposed to perform in. Instead, he sat with me and watched his class perform from the audience. Needless to say, I feel that David makes frustrating choices sometimes. If you want, you can watch David watch his class perform here. 

Aunt Kate helped everyone (Elkins boys included) frost Christmas Tree cookies in December. 

They had plenty of fun together. 

Such a cute boy. 

Love those cookies David!

Looks great Adam!

Yay for cookies and Aunt Kate!

Adam's sweet primary teachers brought him a gift and this awesome card. They are so good with him. 

Being the amazing aunt that she is, Kate made a second set of cookies for everyone to frost closer to Christmas. 

James was having fun for sure. 

Do you have enough sprinkles there, Adam?

Kate also helped them make Christmas Tree mobiles. 

There they are! Looking good!

We got a Christmas visit from the Elkins family right before Christmas. Adam loves this little Ruthie. 

And Rebekah loves her Andrew. 

Really, alot. 

Joseph brought gifts for everyone right before Christmas as well. 

Money!

Money!

Money!

Money!

Money! I think it was a hit!

Finally, the night before Christmas we acted out the Nativity. It was quite the energetic performance and you can feel free to watch it here if you are brave enough. It appears from all our pre-Christmas activities we were super prepared for the big day!