Our White Christmas

We were blessed to be able to go to Iowa to see my family this year for 2 weeks over Christmas. Although we do miss being at home and our time with Sheldon's family, our trips to Iowa during the winter have been few and far between so that makes them extra special! We were also able celebrate my brother's wedding, which we were so glad to be apart of!

A visit to Santa's Castle.

Decorating gingerbread cookies with grandma.

A highlight about Christmas in Iowa is SNOW! There was already quite a bit of snow when we arrived, but while we were there we experienced the Christmas blizzard of 2009! This blizzard was a combination of ice, wind, and over 2 feet of snow. We were snowed in for about 3 days at the farm due to either blowing snow or snow packed roads (we're at the mercy of the snow plow for travel). Sheldon said he shoveled enough snow for a lifetime!

Sledding with Grandpa.

There must be cold wind blowing in Ashlyn's face.

Along with the blizzard, we experienced a couple power outages, one being 24 hours long. The generator did not power the furnace, and eventually didn't work AT ALL...so the house got pretty chilly (54 degrees)! It was so fun for the kids: they love "dark parties!"

Warming my hands over "our fire" during the power outage.

Here is a video clip of the highlights of the blizzard:
Press the play button below to view.

Besides the blizzard adventure, we enjoyed the opportunity to see my grandparents and other extended family (although I was bummed that I did not see many cousins on my dad's side due to our plans being snowed out)! It's always a highlight seeing lots of family members when we make our trips back.

After Christmas, we made a 7 hour snowy drive down to Kansas City, where my brother Brian, and his fiance, Becca, got married. My sister and her husband also live there, so we were able to spend some time with them, and even celebrate New Year's Eve at their home.

We were so glad to celebrate Brian and Becca's marriage, and our kids had a blast being part of the wedding as flower girl and ring bearer, along with their new cousin, Abigail, and several other little ones.

The newly weds: Becca and Brian!

The "mini" wedding party know how to have a good time!

Click play to see a video clip:

It always brings back such great memories to be on the farm "at home," and to see my parents and siblings. Moments with family members are cherished and held close to my heart.

Christmas 2009 will be one that will not be forgotten!