Festivities

We want to share some pictures of holiday festivities that we've thoroughly enjoyed.

First up, Thanksgiving in Buffalo, New York

We got to hang out with Amy, Ariel and Austin Swensen over Thanksgiving break, and it was wonderful being with family.

We had dinner with some ward members and this little chica (Nora) was entertained by Steve for at least an hour. Even after she caused a glass of grape juice to spill all over me (yes, I was lucky enough to be wearing a white blouse that day), I still thought she was the cutest little girl on the planet.

My first attempt at a pumpkin cheesecake.

We got to spend a day sightseeing in Palmyra to visit the Church history sites and catch a session at the Palmyra temple.

E.B. Grandin Press - this was one of our favorite places.

The Sacred Grove

We basically had it to ourselves, which was amazing.

Freezing, but wonderful.

Making ourselves at home in the Smith family log house in Palmyra.

Gorgeous scenery in the late afternoon.

And to welcome in the Christmas season?

A ukelele concert.

Because who doesn't love a good ukelele concert?

Steve's friend Alex graced us with a lovely rendition of The Flaming Lips' Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots.

It was awesome.

And we decided to jump on the tradition bandwagon by making gingerbread houses with friends.

Evidence that the gingerbread houses were made from scratch.

It was quite the undertaking.

Frosting preparation

Spiced gumdrops - essential components of any gingerbread creation.

The houses in the forefront were homemade, while the one in the back came in a kit. I got lazy. I called my friend Ann to find out how to make stained-glass windows since her family members are expert gingerbread architects, and the windows turned out pretty well. Thanks Ann!

Jeremiah and Abby at the outset.

The finished project - I loved their lattice roof and m&m walkway.

Brianna & Uncle Joey in the thick of it.

They claim they made an Ewok farm. We have no idea what that means, but it was sure fun to see their creativity come to life.

The Mr. & Mrs.

The finished product.

Those might be gummy bears sneaking a holiday kiss under the mistletoe.

These gingerbread houses had stories to tell, that's for sure.

It was a hit - we already have a waiting list for Gingerbreadfest 2011.