The Rose Family

What more fun can you have on Christmas morning than spending it with three excited boys? Santa definitely knew the boy's interests, stocking the house full of Lego Star Wars, Iron Man and of course a Mr. Incredible bike! Jacob wasn't left out with his pile of toys as well. Grandma and Grandpa Rose shared the paper throwing frenzy experience with us. Of course, the favorite gifts were Grandma's hand-made quilts for Matt and Josh. Those will stay on their beds for years to come.

We decided that this year would be a good year to start some fun traditions, now that the boys can participate in them. As noted before, we made cookies, built a gingerbread house, read Christmas stories on Christmas Eve, got new pajamas and read the Nativity. To top it all off, the missionaries spent Christmas dinner with us, much to Joshua's elation. Thanks, Elders, for bringing your spirit into our home on this special day!

This year, like many other previous years, we got together with old friends for a Christmas dinner and Nativity. It's crazy to think that when it all started, there was one kid (Haley). Now, we've got enough to fill the stable with animals! It was great though. Our Christmas dinner had a wonderful Mexican theme (thanks Paul). We only lacked the mariachi band. We expect that next year...

The nativity was fun... dressing up the kids took three times longer than the show itself, but the kids felt special about it. Oh, check out some of the props: Burger King crowns for the wise men (and girl), golf clubs wrapped in brown paper as shepherd staves and baby Jesus (Jacob) slept in a bouncer/manger. And you can't forget the angel/maid costume. As soon as it was over, Josh asked "Can I be Darth Vader now?"

We missed the Bosleys! Next year, right?

...the goose is getting fat! Please just put a penny in the old, man's hat.

Thank you, Miss Piggy.

During the month of December, we were abuzz with the preparations for Saint Claus. We started off the month visiting the Mesa Temple and the beautiful lights. Family Nights were busy making cookies and a gingerbread house. The boy's had a blast making ornaments and filling our house with handmade, preschool "chotchkies." Jacob got to see Santa himself for the very first time! The boys had visited him before, but that didn't stop them from being the first in line when it was time. Instead of rambling off about what they wanted for Christmas, they were interrogating Mr. Claus as to the health status of his reindeer. If you want details, I can just point to a book that talks about the reindeer having colds...

Ok, so since a lot of friends browse each other's blogs, I figured I'd post up something to see if anyone is interested. The Barney Family Sports Complex (thebfsc.com) has finally opened in Queen Creek and is now taking applications for Friday and Saturday adult hockey leagues. Individual fees are $175, but team fees (9-13 players) is $1500. You'd be paying less if you get a team together and pay the fee as a group. If anyone is interested in forming a roller hockey team to play in the Saturday league, please let me know. They also have volleyball and indoor soccer leagues.

And now back to our regular programming...

That's what dad calls him... oh and also pudgebucket. He's getting pretty big and has got to be one of the most relaxed and pleasant babies to be around (we're not biased or anything). Here are a couple recent pictures of him for all to enjoy!