Bradley Brights

Mom and Dad got a new electric guitar (probably why James couldn't sleep anymore) and a new large print of the Rexburg Temple.  

Hailey got a new dolly cradle and matching doll dresses for her baby and 18" doll.  

Miles got a new tricycle (Pixar Cars themed) and a train set, although it wasn't really meant for any child specifically, but more than not he's claimed it has his own.  I'm now wondering if he'll let me put it away with the Christmas decor as that was the plan all along...I doubt it.  

Hailey empties her stocking to find more treasures.  Stocking are my favorite part.  

Practicing archery.  They are all in new pjs that Grandma and Grandpa Bradley gave them.  They also recieved new slippers from Grammy and Grandpa Barrow.

In an effort to take more pictures of James and myself together, and not hide behind the camera too much while pregnant, I had Thomas take a picture of us.  Santa left me a new hat and scarf in my stocking.

Thomas set up his Lego building base on the counter.  

Hailey and James decorate a new purse for Hailey from her brothers.  

Hailey helps Miles with his tricycle.  He needs to grow about another half an inch, but I think by the time the snow is gone, and we feel like dragging a bike outside, it will be perfect for him.  

James surprised me with a big gift as well this year.  He, with the help of Chris and Maria, bought me a Kitchen Aid!  I, like most domesticated women, have wished for one since I started spending much of my time in the kitchen.  I knew he had been looking at them because of comments he had made, but never thought he'd actually buy one, without me specifically asking for it.  I was very shocked (a little annoyed because it wasn't budgeted for, I quickly rationalized that by making it a birthday gift as well- one advantage of having a birthday so close to Christmas) but, mostly excited to have such a luxury item in my kitchen.  It took me a few days to use it, mostly because we were gone but, also because I had made all the breads and cookies we needed for a long time before Christmas.  So far it's made a few bread doughs and I have loved it. I'm excited to learn many new tips and tricks with my new machine!  

Later that day we enjoyed soup and bread at the Bradley's while we awaited a phone call from Elder Derik. He is doing so well and is very comfortable being a missionary by now.  We'll talk to him one more time- Mother's day before he comes home.  That day we'll actually get to talk with two missionary brothers as Scott leaves on his mission at the end of February.  

We also web-cammed with my family.  Grandpa Barrow got the kids a very cool building set complete with remote control cars to push and move the blocks around.  

We also gave the kids a little bit of a different gift this year.  We gave them a vacation.  It was not very exciting for the kids until we actually left the next day, but we really enjoyed it and I hope can make it a tradition.