Merry Christmas! For once, Bret and I were in bed early, but we didn't get to sleep in. Bret woke up early because we had no power from the wind and the snow and it was starting to get cold in our house. We turned on the fireplace, but I was nervous about the kids. We waited until about 7:00 and then woke up Bella. We explained what was going on and gave her a lantern. The little trooper just got her own Tinkerbell lantern and was just as excited. She went through her stocking (I wonder how many years it will be before she is not excited about the toothbrush!) and we decided that we needed to head someplace else. She helped me sort out the presents for herself and sister and then we headed out. It was a very scary drive, there were times with white out conditions and I was pretty nervous, but eventually we made it to Bret's parent's home and everything was okay. We were able to share Christmas Morning with Grandma and Grandpa as well as Matt, Natalie and Boston. (Thanks for letting us crash!)
Bella was very excited that Santa pulled through with Mermaid Falls!
June was just excited to see the ribbons on the packages. (And snuggling with Grandma!)
These are pictures of one of my favorite traditions. Each year, Bret picks out a book and writes a special note in it. Then her reads it to the girls. (I usually keep these books separate from their regular library so they are special. ) This year, Bella received The Queen of Style.
June's book is Little Kitten's First Full Moon.
After we finished with the presents, Bella tried out the mermaids in Grandma's tub and even let June join in on the action.
Later, we were joined by Melia, Cooper and their parents. The girls loved opening even more presents, and were very impressed with the remote control Tinkerbell's from Grandpa Clyde. These are the cute little hats Aunt Janine knitted for the babies. Don't they look adorable!
We start our Christmas Eve with Bret's extended family in Ogden. It is always fun to see everyone, especially the talent show! Bella is always ready to perform and this year she did her Marshmallow Dance with Lily. After, they also sang a couple of impromptu songs.
June kept herself busy with the ever popular Uncle Matt.
The highlight of the night is always a visit from the Big Man himself. This was a pretty historic year in the family. There were 8 great-grandchildren born. I didn't get a picture of it (so someone send me one if you have it!) but it was pretty impressive to see 6 of them with their mothers and Grandpa! 
Today was the preschool Christmas Party. Bella had a great time singing, dancing and listening to stories. Her favorite is dancing to the toy and doll song. She was thrilled with her present, a My Little Pony. I heard her and Bailey plotting to get each others gifts, but I don't think it worked out.
She told Santa what she wanted for Christmas, a Bone Book. Her teacher didn't quite understand her because on her list she had written phone books.
Bella showing Marme all over the house.
Abbers, Bella and Jake.
The three babies.
All the cousins! (You try getting the many kids to be happy and look at the camera at the same time!)
Bella with Uncle Matt after opening the Hello Kitty CD player he picked out for her. She loves it!
Little Dan
Jake trying out his whoopee cushion! Thanks for the idea Jenny Moore!
June with Marme and Par.
Bella's preschool program was tonight. Luckily, I had taken her to Sam's the day before so she was prepared to sing. And sing she did. This picture with her mouth wide open is not an exaggeration. She sang and sang her little heart out. It was fun to see and especially hear her over all the kids.
Bella was happy with it and we had fun so I guess that is what is important.
She was a great decorator, notice the amount of sprinkles on the plate.
All the Girls.
It finally snowed! I was beginning to worry about a white Christmas! Bella went out and made snow angels while Dad shoveled.
Genevieve stayed in with Mom and showed off her new trick.
She has discovered that she has lips and likes to hide them in her mouth. I like it best when she puts both of them in.
After a second dance performance, we went to the ward party and a special guest was there. Bella was very excited to see Santa.
We went to check out the elves at Gardner Village today. Bella wouldn't admit it, but I think she was afraid of them. This was about as close as she would get.
