Christmas in Utah

I cannot begin to tell you how grateful I am that I get to go home in the summer and winter to visit my family, friends, and to see my home state in all its beauty. Sadly, I didn't get to experience a snowfall like I'd wanted to, but it was still great to be home.

The kids and I had 10 days in Utah (Craig joined us on day 5). To do what? As much as we could!

BYU Basketball Game.
I love college sports and I'm so bummed we haven't done this in the past because we had a ball - and I'm slowly converting the kids to my alma mater. Meaghan even told me that she thinks if BYU and Alabama played against each other, her daddy would cheer for BYU. Oh, the naivety. But I love it! I didn't get pictures, but I did get some videos. Rah, rah, rah!

Also, it looks like Camron will be either a coach or commentator when he's older. He's got lots to say...to the players. He's also got a little to learn about fouls and such.

Camron Lost a Tooth.
And he's looking so grown up. And acting so grown up. Does that come with losing teeth? If so, I'll cement any remaining baby teeth.

Brighton Skiing.
I tried skiing once 20+ years ago under not-so-good circumstances. I didn't like it. But since my spouse wants us to be a skiing family, we put the kids in ski school and Craig gave it his best shot to teach me. Good news is I didn't do too bad and wouldn't mind trying it again. Bad news is Meaghan hated it, I got sick, and then I got grumpy and vowed never again. Good news is Camron LOVED it. L-O-V-E-D it. Guess we'll have to wait and see what our skiing future holds.

Christmas Eve.
A day of cooking, eating out, movies, and tracking Santa. Oh, and opening pajamas. The excitement builds...

Christmas Day.
A day of toys, more toys, candy, more candy, family, more family, and a Christmas feast. Is it no wonder it's a child's favorite holiday?

Opening presents

Dad pretending to pull Camron's other tooth with his thing-a-ma-jig.

Playing pocket bowling.

Helping Grandpa unload his stocking.

Favorite gift. And cheapest.
Lesson learned.

Tubing.
An annual favorite the day after Christmas.

This boy loves an adventure.

Camron pulling the tube alongside his dad.
He can do it himself now, ya know.

Easy ride up the mountain.

One child wants to do it on his own, the other wants to be waited on.
That doesn't sound like either of my children...

Meaghan hanging with her cousins at the lodge.

Family Christmas.
When as many of us Haackes who area able to get together to celebrate and exchange gifts. We always miss those who aren't there.

So what didn't you see? Me getting older - literally. My annual Culley family reunion - loved seeing so many of my own cousins and aunts and uncles. Laser tag - where kids and adults who act like kids have a great time. Down time - because it's necessary.