Making some happiness deposits....

My sister, Brenda, just posted a message that said over the Christmas break, they made happiness deposits in their memory bank.  I like that!!  Our first family gathering of the break was in Bella Vista, Arkansas. For the last 4 years, my family celebrated at either Brenda's or at our place in Kansas and then the "Easterners" celebrated with Mom & Dad when they traveled down to Georgia and/or Florida. 11 months ago a few of the grandkids asked if we could all get together at Oma's house this year.  That is a pretty big order these days, but almost everyone was able to make it.  

Looking at our photo book of the Washington trip.

My little sis and I

 We rented houses to get everyone a place to stay, and had all our meals at Oma & Opa's. Dustin, Lindsay, baby Kinley, and Amanda were the first to arrive- on Thursday, and then Dustin had to leave with his family for other commitments early Sunday. By Saturday afternoon, almost all were in, and by Sunday afternoon 26 of us were there. It was so heartwarming to watch as everyone settled in to conversations quickly, learning about the events in the lives of each other since we last were together. (@Joshua & Laci's wedding) Much laughter, some serious discussions, some playing around... and that was in the first few hours! Holly's Hunter brought his trombone, and before we realized it, we had a troupe of actors in robes and hats singing and dancing to the trombone in the front room.  Of course, good food was on the menu, and the goodie table located on the screened in porch had many repeat visitors!  

Kinley helps Oma

Introducing Kinley to porch swinging - a long time tradition..

Sunday is a day for worship for our family,  but we opted to have a gathering at Oma's house, with Kenny offering a few words. These times really help us touch base with what is real to us, not a formalized service, but just expressing thanks and praise. In considering blessings, we relish the commitment our kids have to family. Without their encouragement, I don't think we would have made this celebration happen this year! 

Puttin on a show!

We Herndons had our own place, a very nice house by a small lake, so we exchanged our gifts Sunday evening. We also had a breakfast together on Tuesday morning.  It was nice to have our boys and their families with us in a quiet place each evening. 

Rex brought a little tree so we wouldn't be without Christmas decorations at our rental!

Bria reading- a favorite activity

Brenda & Oma

Our Lexie...

catching up...cousins, siblings....

Bria and Alana entertain us.

Talking away!!

The menu called for Oma's cinnamon rolls for Monday, but of course the kids were begging for them as soon as they walked in the door! We had some of their other "Oma" favorites, such as chicken and noodles, coconut cream pie, Mexican cornbread, vanilla pie, to name a few. The rest of us pitched in with dishes as well. John managed breakfast 2 mornings, with some help from Brenda and from Rex. 

Some gifting

The Tarr gift exchange was a source of laughs as we each brought a gift, then picked numbers as to who would select first. Of course, "stealing" was allowed though with restrictions. The "Youngers" (those who have not graduated from high school) get a gift bag with whatever anyone drops in for them, no stealing. 

some games

Many joined in the games, a few watched sports on TV, and it seemed everyone was "connected". At one point 20+ items were "on the wireless" network! We remarked on how the world has changed as iPads, netbooks, phones, and even a few "bulky laptops" were in use and a point of conversation.  Matt worked on Hunter's iPod and others made sure the rest of the technology kept doing whatever it was it needed to do.

The Tarr's at Oma & Opa's Christmas 2011

Tuesday morning arrived too soon and several left early. We went back to Oma and Opas, because Oma had asked that the guys help with the high decorations.  Much to her chagrin, Opa organized them to put away everything from outdoors so he could get it put in the attic! She didn't stay grumpy very long (and you realize that grumpy on my mom is barely recognizeable!) and she was glad to have it done.




Matt & Kelly detoured to Marshall, AR to see some of her family then joined us in Ark City. We were thrilled to have John, Anna, & 1-yr old Ruby come to stay with us as well. We hosted them as well as Dac & Alisha, Scott, Kellie, & Lexie for a scrumptious dinner on Thursday. Everyone left us after dinner, and the rest of our break was quiet.


Yep, many happy deposits into our memory bank this year! Here is to many more opportunities in 2012!!