Party Animals

This has been the week of parties at the Whittier White House. It all started off last Sunday, 12/2, at the Elder/staff Christmas party at our church. There were about 50 elders and staff there with their spouses and we enjoyed a tri-tip dinner, a "I never" group game, and a white elephant gift exchange. I came away with a 6 inch engraved stick that said "Don't worry, be happy" on it, and Tim got a old book. On Wednesday we went to a volleyball banquet in Fullerton for Lindsay's Hope volleyball team. It was at an Itallian restaurant with the team and about 40 friends and family of the team. Lindsay didn't expect to get any awards, so she wasn't disappointed when she didn't get any. We talked with some of the parents that we had met during the season, and sat with Jessica's (Lindsay's roommate) family. Friday was the next gathering, this time at our house. We had the Sanborns and the Hamann's over for dinner and gift exchange. Rachel, Nathan and their 6 month old daughter Abigail live in our back cottage house. Mike and Shayleen Sanborn used to live in our back house, but now live in their own home in Whittier with their kids, Isaiah and Zoe. Since the families that live in our back house become a part of our family we always have them over for a Christmas get together. Mitch, Sarah and Annika Garrison now live in Minnesota, so they obviously couldn't come. But we pulled out all the stops this year. I went out and bought a 10 lb prime rib roast and made country potatoes, jello salad with marshmallows, and Shayleen brought salad and Rachel brought rolls. I also made chocolate mint brownies for dessert. We were stuffed. And had fun chasing the kids around and watching stupid cat videos on You Tube. Then finally, on Saturday night we went to the youth banquet at church. They served all-you-can-eat italian food and had different high school kids doing entertainment during dinner. Afterwards we went to Kurt and Sue Plubells home for dessert with others from our Sojourners fellowship group. It was low key, and I was drained, but I had good conversations with some of the ladies. So that's it for Christmas parties for us, and it's only December 9th. Just a few more gifts to buy, and then all that's left is to wait for Christmas day! Oh, and on Friday I took Erin down to the DMV and she passed her written test, so now she has her learners permit. And so it goes at the Whittier White House.