CHRISTMAS

Christmas was fantastic this year! We got to spend lots of time with both families and had so much fun. We went to Greg's grandparents' house for Christmas Eve. They are so sweet and we loved being with the family. Grandma Riddle shared some fun memories and stories of her parents and we had a wonderful dinner. The kids loved exchanging small gifts and we enjoyed visiting and just being together. 

 Garrett got some silly putty and was so thrilled!

We called Santa Claus on the way home to check in and see where he was and how the night was going. Garrett was completely enthralled!

 The kids loved opening new pajamas on Christmas Eve. Garrett was especially thrilled and yelled, "Cute! Reindeer jammies...just what I've always wanted!" He was so awesome this year and so much fun. Everything was "just what he always wanted" and he was so thankful and excited. He even wished Santa was there so he could give him a big hug and thank him.

Terrible pictures, but it's the best I could do with the subjects I was working with.

We had a great time hanging out and just waiting for the kids to go to sleep so the real party could start.

Another bad picture, but Abby snuggled right up to Mike while Mal was giving one of her famous massages.

Owen just wanted to eat the Nativity...

...while the girls tromped around in daddy's boots!

Brian and Garrett left milk and cookies out for Santa and carrots for the reindeer.

After a not-so-peaceful slumber, we sprang from our beds to see if Santa Claus had really come and if we had indeed made the cut for the nice list.

The haul of presents...remember there were 16 people Santa had to cover at the Phillips house this year.

Waiting, waiting, waiting...

And the fun begins!!!

Garrett got his beloved Pirate ship.

The boys even took over the kitchen and did the dishes. A true Christmas Miracle!!! :) Just kidding, Greg is an expert dishwasher and helps out regularly. I'm not sure about Mike and Eric. You'd have to check with Irina and Gini.

Abby received the Princess castle of her dreams!

We spent the day in SLC and then packed it up to head home to visit with the Petersen side of the family. The boys were especially full of Christmas cheer.

Of everything he received. Garrett was arguably the most excited about this tiny dollar store squid/octopus thingy from my cousin. He made a game where he was "the worker at the circus" and "kids" could come and throw the octopus into the jar (aka--bowl we taped to the fridge.) Gracie was a very willing customer and they had a grand time at La Circus de Garrett.

The fellars hid in the corner and watched video clips on Brian's phone while tipping back on a little DC.

We surprised my parents with an iPad. I think Brooklyn was the most excited, but Sparky and Susie are pretty thrilled about their new baby.

The kids loved opening even more presents (because we were running low) and playing with each other...and Brett and Chelsea.

Poor Abbs was plumb tuckered out and had to have a little rest with Sparky for a spell.

Garrett found these glasses and informed us all he was "the mayor" and had "lots of work to do in his office." He was absolutely hysterical and kept us laughing all night long. He has the best imagination and life with him is so much fun!

Abby got her second wind and took Bretty Bells (as she calls him) for a little spin around the kitchen in her new cowgirl boots. Thanks, Uncle Mike!

Greg was pretty excited to give this special beret to Brian. It's a real treat and probably the best gift of the entire Christmas. Doesn't B look fantastic?

Last thing: Garrett has been dying for a jack in the box (weird, I know) and was absolutely delighted when Santa/Grandpa came through with the big find. For the record, JITBs were probably a dime a dozen in 1962, but they were a little trickier to find in 2012. They're considered a novelty and completely overpriced (in my opinion), but Grandpa was determined to make Garrett's wishes come true and tracked one down. See for yourself...just try not to jump!