Pre-Christmas/Pre-baby festivities

We went to see the Mesa Temple lights early this year since I knew if we didn't do it then, we wouldn't get there at all. During the week is insanely busy, plus it's a 30 minute drive there and 30 minutes back and we obviously have a baby coming soon. We stopped by on Sunday evening after dinner at Matt's parents. It wasn't crazy busy and we were able to enjoy the spirit that being on the temple grounds brings.

Of course, the annual pictures in "our spot."

Unflattering picture, taken by one of our little squirts.

The kids had their holiday performances on two separate nights. Here is Gavin in the kindergarten performance. He's center here in the Santa hat. :) They were supposed to be elves. He sang his little heart out and recited his speaking part perfectly. For the third grade performance, both twins were supposed to be "snirts," which is snow+dirt. Brooklyn is here to the left of the boy in the Santa hat. That's pretty much the best I could see her during the whole deal.

Blake was right in front. :)

After Gavin's performance, we went to the local nursery and picked out our Christmas tree. It's the fattest tree we've ever had! A pretty noble fir. A couple nights later, we decorated the tree. The kids are always fascinated when I bring out their pile of ornaments from years past and they love hanging them on the tree.

Ta-da!

This year, the Hatches hosted our annual friend white elephant gift exchange. As usual, we laughed until our sides hurt. We ended up getting these Rudolph antlers and nose for the car. The kids went wild when they saw them!!! We've seen these on other cars around town and I think they are sooooo cheesy, so only put them on the car for the kids enjoyment. I got lots of pointing and smiles from kiddos at the school come pick-up time!