Christmas in Portland

This year, on Dec. 23, we celebrated Christmas in Portland with Jeff's family, since we weren't going to be here on the actual Christmas Day.  We went over to Jeff's parent's house early Saturday morning and had breakfast.  Then we relaxed and played.  Soon the rest of the family showed up.  We had a nice lunch, and then we opened presents.  It was fun to see everyone and spend time with them.

Daniel

Uncle Todd and Aunt Debbie

Sam and Simon

Grandpa and Aunt Cheryl

Christmas Chapel

The day the boys got out of school, our school had a special Christmas Chapel.  Students are able to audition and play Christmas songs throughout the chapel.   All three boys auditioned and were able to play this year.  Daniel played Little Drummer Boy on the piano.  Sam played Carol of the Bells on the piano.  And Simon played Jingle Bells on the guitar.  They all did very well.

Simon

Daniel

Sam

Ship Lights

Last Sunday night we went down to the river to see the ship lights.  It's a tradition here in Portland for some of the local ship owners to decorate their ships and sail up and down the river.  We've been going down to see them the past several years, so it is a fun tradition for us.  This year did not let us down, and the weather was decent too, so that helped.  Here's a little look at what we saw.  

Church Christmas Music Concert

Last Friday night, our church had their Christmas Music Concert.  The first part was from the Children's Choir, which the boys sung in.  It was neat to hear them singing, and I enjoyed the music.  Here's a look at the boys.

Zoo Lights 2017

This year, we went to see the Zoo Lights at the Oregon Zoo.  This is something we like to do every year.  It's a fun tradition.  The zoo puts up lots of beautiful lights all over the zoo.  They also have a train ride that takes you through the zoo so you can see the lights.  We enjoyed doing it again this year.

The boys waiting for the train

Lights

Wizard of Oz

Boys Posing

Christmas Tree

 This year we went back to our favorite Christmas Tree Farm, Quail Creek Tree Farm, just a little north of here.  We go and pick out our own tree and cut it down.  They have a bonfire where we can sit and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or apple cider.  This year did not disappoint, and we are very happy with our tree.