knowledge is power

While Dick & Erica were here for the holidays we went to the Arizona Science Center. I have only been there once before, I think I was in 4th grade. From what I remember, not a whole lot has changed there in the last 14 years, with the exception of the "high tech" video room addition. We spent a few hours goofing around and actually learned a thing or two. For instance, I learned that I am way smarter than Sam & Richard. You see, I completed the puzzle they were working on for hours in mere minutes. I also learned that laying on a bed of nails is not completely painless. Perhaps I was bordering the weight limit. Unfortunately our admission did not include the Star Trek Exhibition. I'm sure the knowledge available in that section of the museum would have been well worth the extra $20 per person.

nerd alert

The Stephens graciously hosted the 2nd Lord of the Rings marathon this year. I believe the first one was held about 4 years ago. I slept more than I watched, due to our early (very early) post Christmas sale shopping. More than sleeping or watching, I ate. There was a plethora of delicious food just an arm reach away. I am vowing to actually watch the whole thing next time, I'm talking all 12+ hours, as only the extended versions are acceptable for such an occasion.

merry christmas

Right before the Elves brought our new Christmas Eve PJ's we had a family talent show. My dad shared one of his childhood Christmas traditions. He used to perform this song with his sibs using homemade puppets. It was fun to watch the grand kids participate in an old tradition.

Many lovely talents were shared. For mine I shared a video which, as quoted by my mom, is "'R' rated, and pornographic". So naturally, I'll post it here.

We started a new Christmas Eve tradition this year, a White Elephant gift exchange for the adults. Porcelain Renaissance bunny Disco Ball (it really works!)

Fancy Grills Faerie Tale Theatre commemorative tee

Decorative Soaps, so you can shower with Mom & Buff

It was so nice to be able to get up at 9am Christmas morning. Everybody was spoiled rotten by Santa!

3rd

December 17th marked our 3 year anniversary! This year Sam is giving me a combined gift for Christmas and our anniversary... A house! I guess that's better than all the stuff I had on my wish list.

magnify

Sam was recently called to be a member of the Elder's Quorum presidency. Since they were in charge of a booth at our ward's Trek to Bethlehem we had the privilege not only to attend, but to dress the part as well.

it's beginning to look a lot like christmas

Here are two of the things Landon was completely obsessed with this holiday season. Papa's star, and of course Mickey's Christmas Marching Band. Lucky for us, both were conveniently located. All the sibs were in town this year for Christmas so Landon got lots of fun playtime with cousins and uncle Dick (who's name landon pronounces perfectly...).

temple lights

(thank goodness for camera phones!)