Christmas and our 2 1/2 weeks of winter

This year we decided to take a long holiday vacation and visit family in both Washington and in Utah. This allowed us to see more family and friends, and to enjoy 2 1/2 weeks of winter weather. We started in Washington where we were able to do such things as sit by a roaring fire, eat lots of yummy food, and wear our warmest cozy pajamas.




It also meant the reunion of these three. Which of course was the best part.


Christmas Day was also an obvious highlight. The kids weren't quite sure what all the fuss was about as we urged them down the stairs, but they sure were loving opening the presents, and all the cool toys.


Stockings.




Opening presents.





When we arrived in Utah we were glad to see that the stockings there were also hung with care, and we enjoyed a second round of gift-giving with family there.

(thanks L for these photos)

We were also welcome by fresh snow that continued to fall for much of our time there. Since we knew that this was probably our one shot at playing in the snow, we were sure to take advantage.





We had a really great time with both of our families. That was the best gift, to be able to spend time with every member of both of our families at Christmas time. What is not photographed is all the fun time we also spent with friends we don't get to see often enough. It was really really great to see everyone in both states. And 2 1/2 weeks of winter was just the right amount :).