It Was the Night Before Christmas....

Since the first year we've had Austin, we've continued a Christmas tradition that Roger had growing up of the kids getting to open ONE present on Christmas Eve. It's not a present they get to choose...it's a particuliar present, and every year it's ALWAYS the same thing.....

New Pajamas!!!!

I must admit, when Roger "said" we were going to do this I remember thinking, "oh boy, how fun!?! (in a sarcastic sort of way)" But, I LOVE shopping for their matching PJ's every year, and of course, I LOVE that on Christmas morning they are wearing something new and cute! I usually go with a Christmas theme PJ, but this year, since we took a surprise trip (and since Austin is kind of out growing the "cutesy" PJ's) I went with.....
Clemson Pajamas!!!! I know, it was hard for me to buy them knowing that ALL their Christmas morning pictures would be taken in them, but it made both my boys (and their dad) very happy! I am sure all my Clemson friends are proud of me!

Now, the Santa key is out.... And,
The reindeer food has been sprinkled on the lawn!!!

Now, it's time for us to go finish our last traditions before bed...put out the milk and cookies, and then, put the boys to bed in OUR room! We ALL sleep together (boys on the floor in sleeping bags) this night so they can't sneak in the living room without us! So, Merry Christmas to ALL and to all a goodnight!

Christmas #3 (The Taylor Christmas)

That's OUR boys!!! I can't believe they are growing so fast! Time is flying by. Sometimes I wish I could keep them this age FOREVER! I'm soaking in every minute I can! I think they are so darn cute, and I love them to pieces!!!
Golf Cart fun!
Our boys with Grandmother
Our boys with Pa-Paw
The boys got their XBOX 360 Kinnect! Happy, Happy, Happy!!! I have to admit that I wasn't really into getting another game system, but since playing the XBOX Kinnect and watching them play....it is AWESOME. YOU really are the controller (just you and your body). There is lots of movement, and it is fun to play (and even to watch)!
Here's Pa-paw & Grandmother with ALL the grandkids!

The Taylor Christmas was fun for all! I think everyone had a great day! As you can see, they were ALL smiles!!!

Tis the Season to Celebrate!

Most of you know how large my family is. I'm the oldest of six, and my mom is one of thirteen (yes, you read that right!). To get in seeing everyone, exchanging gifts, and celebrating we have LOTS of different celebrations. It almost feels like we use the "eight crazy nights" part of Hannakua (sp?) but for Christmas! I love it though! This year has been a little different because we are trying to fit it all in before my trip...so, here's what we've been up to so far! Here's Christmas #1 & #2...

Our night wouldn't be complete without Cara doing "Cheesetouch" to us all!

I can buy at least TWENTY slushies now!!!

Logan was super happy to get the Boba Fett Star Wars ships!!!

Here are all the cousins from my side of the family (minus Jadain)! What a crazy bunch!

Our first Christmas celebration was actually at my grandmother's house. And, for some reason, I don't think I took any pictures so I will have to get those from Uncle Mike. It was a good night! I got to be in the kitchen and cook with my grandmother!!! And, her dinner was SOOOOO yummy! Nothing else is like it! The kids enjoyed being there, and we all had fun laughing with Zach...it "depends" why! LOL!

Lights at the Zoo!

Goodness, Gracious! We've been very busy! I can't believe Christmas is in less than a week! I have most everything bought, but haven't even started to wrap! I am SO glad Christmas Break has begun! The first week of it will be my favorite, though, because I will be HERE! I leave for San Diego on the 27th and don't return until the 31st for school. Roger and the boys will be staying here! I am not too happy to go, but it's a requirement for school. And, the boys will be occupied with all their new toys! Here's what we have been up to this month so far....

Austin and one of his teachers, Mrs. Stewart!
At our school PTO meeting each grade level participated in some way. Austin's grade level sang the Twelve Days of Christmas (Island Style). :) He was so nervous about being on the stage in front of everyone, but did great!


Last weekend we went to the Marionette Theater to see The Snow Queen for Taryn's birthday. It was actually really good. It's a neat place to go! Logan had a blast!


Silly Picture of all four kids (Austin, Logan, Avery, and Aliza Grace) from tonight at Lights at the Zoo. It was quite chilly and kind of crowded (but manageable), but we had fun! I love seeing all the lights!!! Not too many animals were out and about, but the zoo does a great job with the lights! Helps get you in the holiday spirit!


Our Two Boys! Love them to pieces!!!


The visit with Santa...they think they have him fooled, but Fred (our elf) has been filling him in! Fred even Toilet Papered Austin's room today!


Me and Logan


Me and Austin

Merry Christmas, everyone!!!!