What a crazy December! We started out this past month, by attending a very special event here in Moscow, "Nativities From Around the World." People from the community and members of the church, come together to display hundreds of nativities from "around the world." Some have unique stories, materials they were made from, and history. They have a room for kids to color, play with "kid" nativity sets, and spend time together with family. They also have a room, with a manger where you can dress up and take a photo as a family. Braxton was a sheep, and Ricky and I were Joseph and Mary, with Merrick being baby Jesus. The rest of our family dressed up as well. We had a blast.
Later that evening, I had the opportunity to go with my brother Brian to a Musical Theatre try out for the play "The Secret Garden." I had thought about trying out, but thought I had somehow already missed the tryouts, Brian informed me that I hadn't and that they were taking place that evening. So, he picked me up and we went over. I had a TERRIBLE audition, nothing prepared....basically walked in from it being freezing outside, and said, "HERE I AM!" I got a call back for the part of Martha, which is what I initially wanted, so that was a relief. I came back a day later with my brother who also got a call back for the part of Dicken, (Martha's brother in the play). We both did great! There were several others who were trying out so we were a bit nervous. Long story short, WE BOTH GOT IN! Brian will be my brother Dicken, and I will be Martha (Mary Lennox's Maid). We are really excited, and kind of nervous, as it has been a LONG time since we both participated in ANY musical theater.
The following Sunday, I was released as Relief Society President. I didn't think that it would have affected me as much as it did. I had a wonderful and beautiful opportunity to serve with some amazing sisters, of which I know I learned a great deal from. I learned so much from serving in that capacity. It gave me the strength, courage, and faith, to "go out, and DO." I gained a strong testimony of relief society and its importance in our lives and homes. I gained a love for the sisters in my ward, and came to know each of them. I had the opportunity to learn from so many young amazing mothers, to whom I will be forever grateful for their examples of strength and motherhood. I look forward to what my Savior has in store for me at this time. I have had the opportunity and the special time, to sit and reflect on this past year and half. And more importantly, to apply what I have learned and move forward.
Shortly after this, Braxton came down with his FIRST EVER, stomach flu. Which meant LOTS of puking. Something he had NEVER done before(believe it or not). We did our best to keep him hydrated. He did not keep ANYTHING down for about 12 hours, so we ended up taking him into the ready care over in Pullman. They ended up sending us to the ER just in case he needed an IV. He vomited in the waiting room...:( They ended up giving him some Zofran to help with his nausea and with that he was able to keep some juice down. And we were sent home! Hooray! Merrick NEVER caught the bug, thankfully, and is as happy as ever, still sleeping through the night.
Christmas finally came and our traditional "Cookie Decorating" night came. We had everyone over here for this activity and we had a blast. I made a few homemade soups, and my mom brought some rolls, not to mention ALL the cookies. Everyone contributed and we had a blast! We especially had fun with the NEON dye colors for the frosting.
The next morning was Christmas, it was so fun to go to church with family for sacrament, and then be excused from church for the rest of the day to spend with family. I think that really paints a beautiful picture for how much our church puts a greater emphasis on our families, and being together. I love that! We had a wonderful Christmas, first at our home with our family, then we packed up headed onward over to my parents for a Christmas brunch and gifts. It was so fun to just hang out with everyone and share gifts with one another. Braxton and Merrick were completely ecstatic about the gifts they received from Grandma and Grandpa. In fact, when Braxton opened his remote control Lightening McQueen Race Car, he said, "Ohhhhhh!" and gave it a hug. We have done our best to remember to teach our boys say please and thank you, and I think they are getting SOOO good at it, that most days, I don't have to remind him, he just says it:) And sometimes now, it's a good reminder for me.
Ricky's parents were able to come up in January for about 5 days. We had a BLAST with them! We had a lot of fun playing games with them till all hours of the night! And we got our break as parents, as the grandparents happily and willingly took over! Ricky and I were able to feel rejuvenated as a couple, and it was also great to watch our children bond with their grandparents. We think that is so special! We wish you all the best with this new year, and we look forward to more new and exciting adventures!
Love to you all!
