Family Traditions....

For the past couple of years, we have made a trip to see the Salt Lake City Temple at Christmas time. The last two years, we have parked in Ogden and rode the Frontrunner Train to SLC (Cost of $12, and so worth not dealing with driving & parking). We always eat at JB's and walk around the temple grounds. We love this and we are so lucky to be able to do this. Nick's birthday is on December 20th, so we try to make it extra special for him. This year, I made a decision to take the kids to Build a Bear. I normally wouldn't do this because it is very expensive, but I already told Nick I would.


Nick picked a camo bear and camo clothing. He loves this bear. I think you are never to old to play at build a bear. Ashley & Ryan made two bears also. (One a gift for Ryan's sister and the abomidal snowman for themselves).

Bailey bought the ipod bear that acts as a speaker. She loves her bear and has it hooked up to her stereo.

We had an awesome time. Nick did get a bad tummy ache at the temple though, but he still wanted to walk around the visitor's center. Every year we have gone, the Westside High School Choir has been there singing. Nick wanted to listen, so we watched them perform.

The weather was horrible going and coming home. It was snowing badly when we left and raining badly when we came home, making the roads slushy and messy. Still worth the trip and Nick & Bailey love there bears. I also bought a bear for Haiden. I seriously miss him when I don't see him every other week.

Other things going on this week: Last week Nick had some teeth extracted. Then he got strep. On Tuesday, he was not better and his fever was high, so we ended up in the ER on Tuesday night. The doctor gave him a shot of rocephin and a new antibiotic to help him kick the infection. He finally showed signs of feeling better on Thursday. This was been a horrible experience for him and he may never go to the dentist again :) He will be going to the orthodontist in a couple of weeks to have his quad put in to straighten out his cross-bite.

Friday, the kids had a school Christmas Program. Nick had missed school all week and was not wanting to go, but his sweet teacher talked him into dancing with the class. He did very well. Bailey's class sang a couple of songs too and she did very well. She loves to sing and dance. She blew kisses to the audience as she exited the stage. She's a funny girl.

Ashley and Ryan are still waiting to close on their house. It has been a stressful time for them and a bad experience. I'm hoping she gets in by Christmas.

No real news on Michael. I invited him on our trip to SLC, but he said he had plans to go snowboarding. We are hoping he comes to our Christmas party on the 24th. We will have to see. We really miss him and wish him the best.