Karaoke X-Box Game (not just a girl game)

Okay, here is the proof that Karaoke is not just for girls:

Our family Christmas present this year was an XBox game system. Dad got all the war and racing games. Mom insisted we get some games that the girls will like too. So, Mom got us a Karaoke Dance Party game. After whining about how boys won't ever play that game, my dad took a turn on it today. It was hilarious to watch. He is very talented. Mom and Dad did a duet to "Play That Funky Music".

Our cousins came over for a couple of nights. We had fun hanging out with them, and of course playing XBox. They seemed to enjoy the karaoke game. Even Trevor got in the mix.

We didn't stay up too late. Mom made sure of that. She knows what it's like to be around kids that don't get enough sleep.

Christmas 2008

The Jones Family had a wonderful Christmas. Grandpa & Grandma Mavy came for a quick Christmas Eve visit. Grandpa brought the kids all Christmas T-shirts. The boys all said "Dear Santa, Save time, skip my sister". Kaley's said "I don't want much for Christmas, just my own way". Kelsey's said, "Acting like I'm nice." The kids loved them and we thought they were very cute.

Thanks Grandpa!

Okay, now check out these pictures. Fred really knows how to please a woman. These are just the best stocking stuffers. I think he meant to stuff his stocking. That's what I'm going with anyway. :) At least he tried. He gets all the points for trying.

Okay, is Kaley laughing at me or does she think her new earrings are really that bad. Boy, Santa, you must need a lesson in what a teenager wants.

Santa was a very brave man this year! The kids all got silly string in their stocking. These three were the only ones to get in the mix. Trevor wanted to "save" his, of course. Kaley wasn't about to get "messed-up" (she says she didn't want to get her new shirt stained). We'll let her go with that. Santa forgot to bring some for mom and dad to play too. Next time he better not forget!

After we had our little family Christmas, we headed over to the Mavy's for a very large Christmas. Our service project this year sent us indoors. We went caroling at a convalescent hospital, all 37 of us. It was a change, but it really touched us all. It brought tears to my eyes to see the joy it brought to these patients on Christmas Day. The kids had fun singing and handing out jingle bells to the patients, also. One man was so touched. He said to me, "A little girl gave me this. Can I keep it?" It was a wonderful experience that I'm sure will be repeated.


The girls got to share their musical talent. They played together, accompanied by me on the piano.

The whole Jones family sang together for their other act in the program.

Here are Logan and Trevor enjoying each other and just hanging out. They are so cute. I don't think Trevor took his hat off all day.

Then there is Kaley hanging out with Daddy and Logan. Logan sure likes snuggle lately.

Fred actually got a few minutes to himself. What does he do, have some dessert of course. He doesn't have to share it with any kids.

Justin's favorite past-time . . . EATING! His eyes say it all.

We enjoyed our Christmas and hope you did too. Merry Christmas and a Happy New year!

We Love Parades

We absolutely love parades. The kids want to enter themselves. All in due time.

We started attending the Veteran's Day parade several years ago. It is sad that it is so poorly attended. We will always offer our support. I know I'm a softie, but it always brings tears to my eyes to be able to honor our veterans. What a great way for the kids to honor them and learn.

Auburn's Parade of Lights was a hit as always. For the past several years we have been meeting other family members for dinner at Trejo's (local family owned Mexican restaurant). The parade travels right in front of the restaurant.

So, we arrive early to set up our chairs, move in for dinner, and then back out in time for the parade. People are getting there earlier and earlier every year to stake out spots with their chairs.

It never ceases to be cold. But the kids really enjoy it. Last year my mom brought hand warmers. They were wonderful!! This year we added hot chocolate to our repertoire. Of course, the usual, long underwear, hats gloves, coats, blankets and of course each other. We fight to have Logan sit in our lap.

I have to say that I was disappointed this year. There was way too much advertising in the floats. I hope that changes next year. Maybe I'll have to put my two cents in.

Happy Holidays to you all!!