Noah & Luke's Ordination & Birthday

Luke and Noah's birthday was on Sunday this year! We had interviews done earlier so they could both be ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood on the 30th while Papa and Grandma were still here. Emilee and boys came down too. It really was a great day. The Spirit was strong as Jason ordained the boys and gave each of them a special blessing. I am amazed at how much they have grown - especially spiritually - in the past few months.

 

Grandma and Grandpa Smith were able to participate from Russia! Emilee facetimed them on her phone, with our bishop's permission. It was so great that they could be there! It was in the early morning in Russia. I got this picture from Emilee - it's not great, but it's the only one we have :)

After church and dinner we had a birthday party! I made Luke's cake this year - chocolate raspberry, and Dessa made her famous lemon cake for Noah's. It was so fun to be able to share all of these good times with family. We are usually celebrate by ourselves. Grandma Smith prepared before she left on her mission and had sent blankets she made for Luke and Noah's 12th birthday.

I had to include all of us squeezed in around the table! We had 11 people! and the delicious ham that mom and dad sent for our Christmas gift.

Christmas 2018

Christmas Eve

Luke and I started a new Hardy tradition. We all watch The Great British Baking Show and decided we would adopt the English yule log cake. It was fun and tasted good - it was too rich. Next year we will improve it! Sophie and her beloved pig. She found this at an antique store and had to have it. Every holiday she makes a new bow for the mama and the baby. Cracks me up!!!!

Christmas morning the kids all wanted to do sibling gifts first. I was happily surprised! They were all sooo excited about what they got their sib. It was nice and set a great tone for the morning.

We tried to go on a goat walk - but they were too hungry and wouldn't follow us. So it was a family walk in the woods.

We had a yummy ham dinner. It was so fun to have Craig and Dessa here to celebrate with us!