Christmas

Although it went way too fast, we had a busy and fun holiday break. Zack made sure our decorations were suitable for the season. He improved on our little nativity set by adding a star, palm tree & cart for the donkey. 

He also made this window festive. 

On Christmas Eve we enjoyed our usual traditions like eating,

drinking, 

opening pjs,

 & setting out cookies for Santa

We always watch The Polar Express before going to bed. This time the kids were all sleepy before it was over. They were tucked in bed and asleep by 10:00 and they didn't wake up until 6:15. 

 

Ben really wanted to go on a treasure hunt to find his presents. We had an arcade basketball hoop for the boys that was too big to move from its new home downstairs. I decided to surprise them using Ben's treasure hunt request. I made little clues and had a gift bag with the first clue hidden behind the tree.  It was a great plan until Zack, in his excitement to use the new markers Santa put in his stocking, went downstairs to get his marker board and saw the hoop. I didn't even think about it until I heard him yell, "Guys there is something awesome down here!" I made him swear to keep it a secret while we opened our presents. The surprise wasn't totally ruined, but didn't go exactly as I hoped. 

After the kids played with their new things for awhile, we loaded up and drove up to Idaho. This is the first year I can remember that the entire McGarry family was able to get together for a meal. It is definitely a houseful with my parents, all seven kids, 5 spouses, 1 fiance, 1 girlfriend, 10 grand kids, and an aunt, uncle and cousin. It's very loud, chaotic and super fun. 

On Saturday I realized that everyone in my family thinks that I am a wimp. They are probably right although I prefer to be considered cautious. We went snowmobiling and Matt asked Zack if he wanted to go for a ride with me. He was shocked and told him that "duh, Mom can't drive a snowmobile."  With my reputation on the line I had to prove him wrong. I'm glad I did. Riding a snowmobile fast is really fun.  I can now see the motivation to go out into the freezing cold. 

The kids also got to do some sledding. 

Before we left, we managed to get a picture of most of the grand kids. We are missing Wacy (on a mission in San Bernadino) and Shaylee.