Warm Wishes

I just finished a steaming bowlful of Cheesy Broccoli soup. Nothing seems more fitting for the holidays than homemade soup and crusty bread. I will post the recipe for the soup if anyone is interested.

The ward Christmas Party turned out to be a real success. We had lots of singing, stories and a visit from Santa Clause. When I say a lot of singing I mean that - a lot of singing. The party started at 6pm and finished at 10:30pm. Longest Ward Party ever- but we stayed and had a fabulous time. The food was great - catered ethnic food - spring rolls, curries, noodles, sauces, etc. Not your typical Christmas fare but way yummy. Tons of fruit, desserts, and chocolates. And we have great chocolates here. Quin and I have discovered Galaxy chocolates. Too good to be true - really creamy and smooth - like Cadbury, but better. Santa gave us a stash of Galaxy fruit and Nut bars - they are quickly depleting...

So that is how our holidays began, putting up the Christmas tree with the kids, a great ward party, my one and only Christmas song on the radio - Bruce Springstein "Santa Clause is coming to Town", and two great talks at church on Friday. The Christmas season is here.

It seems like such a simple Christmas this year - we have limited decorations and really no Christmas music that we brought. However Grace is drawing a lot of Christmas pictures and cards to decorate our home. BYU radio is always tuned into our computers and I have listened to more conference talks than I think I have ever watched before. Quin and I have been assigned to talk in sacrament on Friday and so we have been researching talks with Christmas themes. I am so thankful for the piano we finally bought - we have been singing more and Audrey is practicing some Christmas Primary songs. I spent last Saturday shopping in Dubai down at The Dragon Mart and pretty much have a handle on the gifts the kids are getting. It seems like a very simple Christmas this year and I am so thankful. No stress. I think I am able to concentrate on the real meaning of Christmas and spend the time reading and going to the park with the family. Oh yeah - and still swimming in the pool :) It's all good.