Olson Christmas

Did I mention that my parents moved here from Texas? I am so glad they live closer. We enjoy seeing them more often, and driving only 3 hours instead of 23 to visit. We haven't celebrated Christmas with my family for 6 years, so I was super excited to get to party with them a little. We all got together on the 22nd for Gingerbread House making and a Bethlehem dinner. It was great to spend time together!

Gingerbread Building contest. My dad gave an award to each house, and then we each voted for our favorites. Mckaylee won first prize! A crisp $5 bill. My boys are already thinking of ideas for next year's competition.

Douglas, Kira and I got the most creative award.

Here are all the houses in their sugariffic splendor.

TJ and Gage worked together and got the award for the best accessories. I like their dog house made of caramels. There was even a mysterious piece of chocolate near the dog's backside. :)

We enjoyed a new tradition of having a Bethlehem dinner. The kids loved eating on the floor by candlelight.

Kim and Rob Bunker (still in Newlywed status) joined us for the celebration.

My mom got us matching Pajamas. Don't we look cozy?

So my dad nonchalantly mentions that he had some skin spots removed. We come to find out that there was some melanoma, and they had to remove a big chunk on his forehead. I had to get a picture of the fresh wound. We were teasing him that he looked like Darth Vader upon removing his mask. My dad will continue to get checked every 6 months, but the doctor is hopeful that they will keep the skin cancer under control. We're glad he doesn't need chemo or anything.

It was great to FINALLY spend the holidays with my family. I love them!

Here we are in front of the tree at my parent's home. The boys wore their new pajamas the entire day.