Our Christmas Festivities continued throughout the day, we just changed houses and families. At 1:00 we left my family party and went to Jeff's family party. This party is always a bit more crazy and noisy with so many more people especially kids. For instance, there are 20 grand kids in Jeff's family and 4 in mine. This makes a big difference in the noise and chaos levels.
The kids made gingerbread houses out of gram crackers and candy. I don't know which one is Cassidy's and Harrison's. But it was cute to see all the different ones spread across the back porch.
I think Aunt Geniel's came in first place. It had a car in the carport and Santa's head sticking out the Chimney. She is so creative! If I would have participated in this activity, I am sure I would have eaten more candy then I put on my house!
This is Brendon's house. Surprisingly, VERY creative. I considered him in second place until I found out Geniel cheated and used a glue gun for hers instead of icing. Now I think he should win first place because he built his with icing. Sorry Geniel, but cheaters never win. :) hahaha Anyway, like I was saying, I was very surprised at Brendon's creativity. Notice the car in the driveway, walkway to the house, tree made out of broccoli, a snowman and a cute little swing.
Next came a potluck Mexican lunch/dinner. I didn't get any pictures because I am sure I was eating too much. But, after that came my favorite portion of the traditional Oakes family Christmas party. The Christmas Caroling!! Yes, Jeff's Dad pulls these two trailers with his old cool tractor and we drive around the neighborhood singing Christmas carols and delivering goodies to the neighbors. A few years ago, he only pulled one trailer, but in recent years it became necessary to expand to two trailers. So, here we are all loaded on and pulling out of the driveway.
Oh no.....what is happening? The tractor stalled before we could get out of the driveway. The men jump off the trailer to assist in the tractor re-start process.
Meanwhile, here is a picture of my three reindeer sister-in-laws.
And here, waiting patiently with Cassidy are the two cousins that just moved to Snowflake, George and Elizabeth.
And of course, Santa's two cutest elves.
Meanwhile, back at the ranch......the tractor does not start, but laughter has started and memories have been made.
Come rain, shine, snow or broken tractor, the tradition must not die. No, not even a broken tractor can thwart the Christmas spirit of the Oakes family... :)All is well that ends well....
P.S. Just a little side note to my Snowfake and other cold weather living friends. Notice Jeff's attire. Short sleeve shirt and shorts. It is a good thing we were wearing Santa hats so it would feel like Christmas even though we had balmy weather in December. :)
Next on the agenda....Gift Exchange.
Cassidy opening up an art set.
Cassidy immediately getting to work.
Harrison opening a movie from Joseph.
Grandma giving the kids their own miniature Nativity Scene set.
Here are the kids opening them and setting them up. Amazingly we made it home with all the pieces in tact and they have them set up on their dressers.
Last on the party agenda....Play Games and Karaoke.
I must say the High School Musical Karaoke songs were the highlight for the karaokers. Check out Cassidy belting it out!
By Sunday morning, it was time to make the trek back to Snowflake. But not after making lots of memories and packing in A LOT in one day. Thank you to the Oakes for a very entertaining Christmas party! We are thankful that we were able to join you all in the festivities of the holiday season!
1 comment:
What a Christmas you had! I love all the pics. and descriptions of what you're doing....lots of fun! It looks like your family had a heck of a time!
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