A Magical Christmas

We had a wonderful, quiet Christmas at home this year. While we really missed not being with family, it was also so nice not to be traveling. It has been a really busy semester and having time to relax at home together as a family was wonderful. Christmas came a bit early for Michael when he learned all his hard work paid off and his Dissertation proposal was approved! With his research set to begin in the new year, we were all ready to enjoy lots of family time and relaxing.

The Sunday before Christmas Hazel and I sang a duet of "Star Were Gleaming" during Sacrament meeting. Hazel was nervous, but she sang beautifully and did so well. I'm so proud of her!

On Christmas Eve we enjoyed a nice dinner with a couple from church and one of Michael's co-workers. The kids were SO excited for Christmas day! Hazel kept going on about her theory that Santa is actually a wizard and even wrote a note asking hime about it. Lenora kept talking about how she would "wake up and RUSH out to the living room" on Christmas morning. When it was finally time for them to wake up, here's what was waiting for them...

Their reactions were priceless. Is there anything more magical than the Christmas when Santa brings you a bike!?! They were so excited about their new bikes they immediately headed to the basement to ride them since it was still dark outside. 

After they got some riding in and we woke up Daddy it was time to open a few more presents and then enjoy breakfast.

We spent the rest of the day riding bikes, Skyping with family, playing, and enjoying dinner with the missionaries and a sister from the ward. It was a perfect day!