Christmas in Sandpoint

Now that we're into January, it's time to write about Christmas!

The roads and the kids were almost perfect for our drive up to Sandpoint. Christian didn't cry at all until the last 30 seconds of the trip. (really!) The trip home wasn't quite as easy, but we all survived.
Christian got to be the Baby Jesus in our nativity play, with Aunt Dianna as Mary.

Clara and Nathan helped distribute presents on Christmas morning.

Clara helped Aunt Mel make the traditional chocolate-covered peanut butter balls. She actually did a pretty good job rolling them. Clara had lovely hair during our visit, because Grandma, Aunt Mel, and Aunt Di all took turns trying fancy hairdos on her.

Nathan spent lots of time helping Grandpa work on the little apartment he is building next to his studio. Nathan was insistent on bringing his toolbox to Sandpoint because Grandpa might need some of his tools. Nathan helped Grandpa build two beds!

There was not much snow in Sandpoint this year, but it was just right for the kids.

Clara was brave enough to sled down the hill by herself this year.

The kids enjoyed "sledding" across the frozen pond. It was really slick and they went pretty fast when pushed.

David, Nathan, Grandpa, and Uncle Michael went ice fishing.

Aunt Dianna and Uncle Matt had a beautiful wedding reception a few days after Christmas. David and I hit the thrift stores. (The thrift stores in Sandpoint put the ones here to shame. Lots of nice kids clothes in fabulous condition for just a dollar or two.) We got some really nice school clothes for Nathan, including several pairs of pants in perfect condition...a rare and exciting find! Christian started waking up two or three times a night during our visit, and was grumpy a lot during the day. He still managed to melt Grandma's heart when he decided to smile.

We really loved our visit to Sandpoint. We always do. David's parents are so gracious and kind. I love the experiences our kids have up there that we can't give them at home. They will always have those memories. We are so grateful for all the Lord has blessed us with this past year, and we're excited see what this year brings!