christmas travelogue: the first few days

Our flight into Vegas was completely uneventful. It was one of the better trips we've ever had with the kids. Cori's Mom and Step-dad were there to pick us up and a couple hours later, we were in St. George. Cori's sister, Brittany, and her family came in that night as well. The next day, we paid a visit to Santa. The kids were getting their squeezes on before I could even get the camera ready. It was Grant's first time on the jolly man's lap. There was some hesitation, but this was one professional Santa. He was so cute! Grant couldn't help but like him.

We spent a lovely afternoon at Snow Canyon. There are lots of walks and hikes through the park that are great for little kids. We climbed around the grippy red rock for a while. We encountered a pond which was perfect for hurling rocks into. The views were gorgeous and the weather was perfect. Once we were done hiking, we loaded up and drove a little further to the sand dunes for a pick nick lunch.

The rest of Cori's family continued to trickle in. Cori has 3 sisters and 2 brothers. All of them are married. And there are (at the moment) 10 grandkids in the group. So once we were all assembled, we were quite the crowd. Cori's sister, Tiffany, works for Marriott and was able to set up some hotel rooms to help us spread out a little.

St. George also happens to be the present hometown of my mission president. We had a wonderful visit with him and his wife, and their youngest (of 9 children!), Cindy. It was a treat for me that they were able to meet Grace and Grant. Sis. W* cheered and laughed with Grace as she wrote her name 15 times, and then attentively listened to her count and recite her ABC's. Cori and I love spending time with this great family. It was great to catch up and reminisce. They consider all of their missionaries as family, and often refer to their 'mission grankids'. We are lucky to be part of this group.