We did a lot this Christmas break, starting with making Christmas cookies. Gavin and Ellie did a great job rolling out the cookies (and eating the raw cookie dough).
On Christmas Eve day, we all went down to the Holyland Exhibition and learned about life in the Holyland.
We all went into downtown LA and had lunch at the iconic Philippe's. They have a great French Dip sandwich.
Gavin and Ellie love being with Aunt Erin. All of us got to talk with Uncle Evan in Argentina on his mission. We talked with him for an hour and a half.
All of the kids got new pajamas from Santa Claus for Christmas. Gavin, Elise and Ellie are shown here with their great grandparents, Georgine and Bob, who came here for Christmas (and to get out of the freezing temperatures in Ohio.)
Megster made the cutest gingerbread houses - and we had the most fun decorating them. Thanks for giving us a new activity for Christmas, Megster.
After Christmas, we all took a quick trip to Morro Bay - and went out to the rock to see "ginormous" waves breaking over the jetty. We also visited Big Sur and Hearst Castle.
Alana and Margaret went kayaking on the bay on one of the beautiful days at Morro Bay. The otters came within about 20 feet of the kayak.
On New Year's Eve, we had the traditional dinner of Chinese food. Cousins and friends all joined us by the fire pit and then we went out on Colorado Boulevard for the New Year's Eve celebration.
The Redlands cousins had a great time celebrating on the parade route on New Year's Eve.
Ellie and Gavin watched the parade on New Year's Day on Colorado Boulevard. Their favorite floats always had airplanes on them.
All four of the kids enjoyed the activity and music at the parade. Thanks to Mardene for saving us the seats.
This first picture was just taken of Evan on top of a church member's building in Villa Crespo, a section of Buenos Aires. 
Evan is pictured here with his companion and a member of their church.
