We took our first plane trip that involved taking car seats and not being dropped off at the curb. We drove the hour and a half to New Orleans, parked at a hotel, took a shuttle, and then made our way through the line with all of the stuff. I tried to pack light but seriously in winter when you are going to Utah and you have Texas/Mississippi blood this is difficult.
The best surprise was Nani and PopPop planned their layover in New Orleans! Once we made it through security it was time to check out as parents I mean share the love of our boys with their grandparents. :-) We shared the boys by sitting across one aisle in the plane. Nani and PopPop both took turns entertaining me too. Probably, a highlight of the entire trip for me was the travel on Friday and Saturday. We got a really quality visit in with Matt's parents.
Saturday morning we met Grandpa Ed for breakfast in Vegas before traveling to Utah.
I always love the views in this part of the country.
Nathan enjoyed dancing and playing the drums as always!
Nathan's first response to the snow was, "Whoa this is cold." He decided stomping was much better until he could get his "glubes on."
Then it was time for a purpose to the cold. Snowball fight! All this took place outside of Cafe Rio which was delicious!
Nani downloaded a book and read it out loud. We didn't finish it but I really enjoyed it. My activities in the car are very limited since I get car sick.
We greeted Kira, Jessi, and Peter with snowballs.
We ate some delicious taco salad (thanks Peter) and freshened up to attend this event. It was neat to be in the conference center and to see the Mormon tabernacle choir in person.
Mom, didn't come with us so she could put the boys to bed and prepare for our Christmas morning the next day. We were spoiled with gifts and enjoyed the reactions from the boys. Nathan was especially funny as he would just dump out the gift bag to get to his presents.
How many Tureks does it take to cook breakfast? :-)
We saved some presents to do after breakfast and the boys made sure we hurried up to that event as they both went to explore on their own.
It started snowing on Sunday morning and the boys were thrilled. I didn't mind it either. Snow is beautiful! The summary of snow is that both boys love it but are disappointed that it is so cold. :-)
We also took family pictures. There were so many good ones from the actual photographer and then the other photographers that were busy at work too. I chose a few. :-)
The best days start and end in pajamas.
The boys enjoyed making Christmas cookies. Nathan had everyone a little on edge as he frosted and got up and down a million times during the process. Everyone had fun though!
Monday we went to a cute shopping village that had an elf scavenger hunt. This was more fun for everyone!
Nathan wanted a kiss too!
We found lots of cute items and bought many tasty treats. From the village it was off to eat at Kneaders, drop boys off to rest, and continue on our way to do some more shopping.
Joshua was proud of himself finding some elves before everyone else.
Monday night we took the train or as my boys call it the metro. We went downtown to eat at The Garden which is located on the top floor of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. As we waited for our reservations we wandered City Creek Mall. We followed this up with viewing the lights on Temple Square. It was a perfect evening.
The Mall
The lobby of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building
Nathan is always well hydrated.
Uncle Peter not only throws kids around and works hard at being the most fun he can be super helpful. He was right there with me putting coats on and off and usually had Nathan's hand throughout the evening.
At the restaurant the kids could write a letter to Santa and mail it!
Joshua included a new item on his list...three days before Christmas. He listed the same item in almost every blank on the page. Thanks Amazon. :-)
Tuesday it was time for my crew to leave. We were sad to go and even more disappointed because snowy conditions made it impossible for us to do the Polar Express Train ride as planned. We tried to do our own Polar Express in the house but I don't think it was quite the same experience.
We drove back to Vegas and spent the evening at Uncle Mike and Aunt Kelly's home. They were wonderful hosts and we had a delicious meal with them. The boys were especially glad that there were cousins to play with as well.
The next morning it was off to the airport. Nathan got Joshua's cold, scraped his nose and chin, and also picked up some type of rash along the way. It is always something.
We had a wonderful visit. We all loved seeing everyone and being together. Hopefully, we will stay in touch with each other and maybe figure out a way to not go a whole year again!
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