Christmas With Family and Friends

Christmas started for me last Sunday morning when I arrived in Salt Lake to do Christmas with my sister's family, mom, and grandparents. I lounged around the house avoiding the cold weather and enjoying my nieces and nephews. That evening we celebrated Christmas; the hightlight, of course, was watching my niece and nephews instantly fall in love with their brand new scooters. The blizzard in Orem put a damper on some of our plans on Monday, but I managed to get my 72 hour kit (my super exciting Christmas present). Salt Lake didn't get as much snow so we did get to enjoy Temple Square that evening before I had catch a plane back to LA. I was disappointed that I didn't get to attend the temple that day, but it was great to soak up the peace on Temple Square.
After 2 days of work, I headed down to San Diego, where my friend/mission companion/former roommate, Emilysa, and her friend picked me up from the airport. We intended to go Midnight Mass but went to Denny's instead - Big Difference! We laughed and talked until 3 AM and then went home and finished talking at 4 AM. I typically think people who do this are insane.
A few hours later we started opening presents. Santa found me in San Diego, and Emilysa's family spoiled me with books and treats as seen below. I think they were even inspired at some of the presents they gave me.
After 4 hours of present opening (Emilysa has a big family and we took a break), we ate a ham dinner and lounged around. I feel that Christmas is for lounging so this was wonderful. Just before I left for home, the family gathered around the grand piano for caroling. A very merry Christmas thanks to a wonderful and generous family.

Snow in LA

A sudden cold snap fell upon Southern California this week and it snowed in the northern parts of the county, causing some libraries to close. Luckily, I live in the South. We just got pelted with rain, but we made snow of our own as seen below.

Notice how my art is intended not to intimidate children. I want them to out shine me with their artistic talents. Until future notice, I'm content with construction paper snow.

Celebrating the Season with Goofy

Disneyland, the happiest, most decadent place on Earth, is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from me. They candy cane striped, Christmas treed, and lit up the whole park just for me it seems.
My new favorite ride is "It's a Small World" which they decked out for Christmas as well. The funny thing is that it really is a small world. On my first trip to Disney, just after I moved here, I ran into a long, lost roommate.
Unfortunately, I missed the fireworks and thus the snow that Disney pours down every night. It might be the only snow I see all year.

Charlie Brown Would Be Proud

I wouldn't say I've decked the halls per se, but I did find some festive decorations for my favorite time of year. I think Charlie Brown would think that it looked just great!

If you look carefully, you'll see the musical note ornament which is my favorite.

This is a blurry photo of what it looks like in the dark.

I love Nativity sets and had to have this one the moment I saw it.

Merry Christmas!