Since I can't think of clever things on my own, I must copy ideas from other people.  My friend Becky made this great doorway puppet theater for her kids this Christmas and I wanted one too.  She was nice enough to give me the directions and some great tips that made my life easier when trying to sew it.  It was actually easier than I thought it would be.  I got ambitious enough to line the storage bag--something that wasn't in the directions.  But, it makes it look a little more finished.  I am so good at copying that I even ordered the same puppets she has!  Would you believe that I never copied others' homework in school?  As I have gotten older, it makes me think that maybe I should've.  I'm good at it...

Our family would like to wish you a Merry Christmas.  May the season bring you and yours love and joy.  God bless...

Grandma Hodson thought it would be fun to invite her grandchildren over for a sleepover this past week.  Jack (7), Piper (4), Alice (3), and William (2) all came over for Christmas festivities--thought it was decided that Will was probably a little young to stay over night.  The evening started out with making gingerbread houses out of graham crackers.  I guess that makes them graham cracker houses--not gingerbread--but the idea is the same.  After everyone's houses were thoroughly decorated and the roofs caved in, they were herded over the watch a Christmas classic (Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer).  This is where the parents left and Grandma took over.  From what I hear, they ate popcorn and watched the movie.  Sometime after that, they made Christmas cards, read christmas stories, and built LEGO landscapes.  Grandma even gave out cash prizes for the winners (Alice received a token prize for effort).  Alice and Piper had a difficult time going to sleep.  From what Grandma says, they took trips back and forth to the bathroom, sat in the dark in chairs staring at one another, and generally avoided sleep.  Apparently they didn't get to sleep until midnight (sorry Grandma).  But, I know Alice had a great time and loved sleeping over at grandma's.  Unfortunately, Jack was the only one who might get invited back next year.

Bryant and Brad have officially left on their missions to Chile.  We will miss them, but are very proud!