So this year we spent Christmas in Arizona. Since we packed up and loaded about every article of clothing we owned for a family of 6, we couldn't fit Santa's gifts in the car with us. So Santa surprised us with a trip to Disneyland for Christmas. They were so thrilled and so excited. We left Arizona two days after Christmas and headed to Disneyland. Can I just tell you we were insane for going when we did. Not only was it the busiest time of the year to go but every ride was at least an hour wait. The boys didn't like waiting that long and we practically shuffled our way around there. I think we only saw about 25% of the whole park.
The first day we spent in Disneyland and the second in California Adventure. It is hard to tell which one I like the most. I think California Adventure, because it wasn't as crowded when we went.
Our first day we had beautiful weather. T-shirt and pants weather. The second, it rained and we froze. So thank goodness we spent $50 on ponchos because those kept us dry and warm.
So here is a mall recap of our trip. I don't have all the pictures uploaded yet but here are a few.
Day 2 in California Adventure.
This was in Calfornia Adventure. It felt more like a state fair on a pier. But the big rollar coaster you see is Screamin California. This was Keaton and Andrew's favorite ride. They rode it about 4 times. I voted to stay behind with the two smallest and watch from a distance. Plus, I was pregnant, can't really go on it.
Autopia, this was a ride that Owen could go on. He loved it. It was our very first ride in Disneyland. Day 1
The boys got their picture taken on the rollar coaster ride on Screamin California
Waiting in line for the Toy Story ride. It was pouring down rain and we were all freezing. Luckily Mr. Potato Head kept my kids entertained while we waited for the hour and a half it took us.
Night we arrived in Disneyland. Our walk to Downtown Disney. It was a long walk but we made it.
In front of the Disneyland Train station
The swimming pool at the Hilton was a hit for these boys
Disneyland was really decked out for Christmas. It was really amazing.
Jedi training. My boys were really wanting to make it in, but when there are a million little kids wanting the same thing, it makes it tough, so we just watched from the side.
Trying to pull the sword from the stone
In front of the Cars statue in California Adventure.
When we got back to Arizona we got ready for Camille's wedding. Camille is the youngest girl in the family. It was her turn to get married and she and Tanner were sealed on Jan. 2nd in the Mesa Temple. It was absolutely beautiful. Tanner is such a great guy and Camille is one amazing girl.
The day was perfect, the weather was beautiful and the children did great. It is amazing that it all turned out and worked out as well as it did with a ton of kids running around. But it worked and the day was perfect.
Tanner and Camille with all the Snyder Grandkids outside the temple. I love this picture of Owen, in the bottom right corner just looking up and admiring Camille and Tanner. He was holding Ellie's hand and he was just so gentle with her that day. He is seldom like that.
The reception was at the Wright House. It was so beautiful. It was really breath taking. These pictures really don't do it justice, but it was something else.
Inside the Wright House
One of the many quirky faces of Owen
My sweet children before the reception started.
Ellie and I at the reception
I am not going in order at all here, Christmas was so much fun.I can't remember the last time I spent Christmas with so many people. I think there were about 30 of us total on Christmas morning ripping things open and kids just having a blast.
Acting out and reading the Christmas story. Everyone loved playing their parts
Notice that Grandpa S. is the angel.
Keaton and Andrew opening presents
So after we talked to Uncle Elder Preston, Santa Claus showed up for our Christmas Eve party. Each and every one got a turn to sit on his lap and get our Christmas socks. My boys thought he was so funny. Now this Santa is quite entertaining. He had us all laughing our heads off.
Owen even sat on his lap
My nephew Kimball decided to put on his Santa suit too and be his helper. It was the funniest thing I have ever watched. He was just darling.
Andrew and Santa
Isn't this the cutest picture I think this is my all time favorite of Owen and Santa
Ellie, I just love her morning hair. Christmas morning finding the message with all the disney characters and finding out we got tickets to Disneyland.
Oh my goodness, can she be any sweeter
Christmas Evening we went down to see the temple lights. It was my favorite part. Too bad Andrew was in a grumpy mood and woudn't turn around for pictures.
And of course while we were there we took our children to see Madalynn's grave. We invited Great Grandma/pa Ray, and everyone else who wanted to join us. It was a special time for us to talk about heaven and what happens when we die. They were pretty sensitive to it and they were so sweet to clean off her headstone. We miss her. It will be 9 years this year that she passed away. Time sure passes quickly.
More pictures to come. Stay tuned.
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