New Year's Eve

This New Year's, the adults enjoyed again the Johnson's annual New Year's Bash! The kiddos this year had an ALL-NIGHTER with the Benson kids! Super fun for both parties! Happy 2011!

Christmas Day!

Christmas Eve

Mom made matching jammies for Christmas!

Ashley throwing out "Reindeer Food" off the deck!




Twas the Night Before Christmas,
Fritz had just flown in on a jet
The kids were all nestled,
And Goose was all set!

Austin's Baptism

On December 19, 2010 Austin got baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. His daddy was home to do it (less than 2 days home from Iraq) and grandparents there for support. It was a beautiful service and a full circle of love was felt. Congratulations Austin on your decision to become baptized. We love you!

Daddy's Home

Duane surprised us on Friday with a ring of the doorbell at 8am. We were supposed to pick him up at 5pm that evening. I hear Austin yell "DADDY!!!! It's a CHRISTMAS MIRACLE!!!" He'd rented a car, got a dozen donuts and was ready to play all Christmas holiday!! We're so glad when Daddy comes home!!!

First Snow of the Season!

Let is Snow, Let it Snow, Let it snow!
So December 16, 2010 was the first snow of the winter! Of course the kiddos got out of school and hour early and were sledding for a couple of hours. Yay! Now if I just didn't have to drive in it....

Ash's Preschool Christmas Program

"So come along with us on this Happy Birthday Jesus Christmas celebration! We'll sing of candy canes, jingle bells, and animals on a silent night...so long ago."
This was Ash's line she did a great job saying at her super cute preschool program. This is her last Christmas program in preschool and I must say I was a little sniffly. The kiddos performed and sang wonderful Christmas songs and then went into the big room to meet a visitor!!! Santa and Mrs. Claus and we ate delicious cake and punch. I love you Ash!

State Dept Christmas Party

Jeff Culver our dear friend, President of Diplomatic Security

The State Dept party was hosted by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and "In Style" Magazine. They had a CANDY BAR there, where you could fill up a bag of all the candy you wanted. Austin's manna from heaven!


Hillary Clinton giving good tidings to all the family members of unaccompanied spouses serving overseas.

Ashley's favorite part of the evening, the thick, delicious hot chocolate!!!



We look forward to these Christmas parties hosted by the State Dept each year. Love mingling with other ladies in the foreign service. By the way, the cookies are delicious-the famous "White House" sugar cookies. YUM. Was it very diplomatic of me to bring one home in my purse?