For the last two days we have had the BEST Christmas treat around here. My parents came to visit. As much as we love aunts, uncles, and cousins, it's also wonderful for the kids to get their one-on-one time with their Grandma and Papa. None of us kids are going to be able to go home for Christmas this year, so mom and dad are making the rounds to all of us. Sunny Las Vegas was their first stop. Sunny, but still cold...if you call weather in the 50s cold. We do. Yes, I know we're spoiled rotten, but we endure 4 months of scorchin' hot sun, so we can enjoy absolutely beautiful winters. So I don't feel bad bragging...neener neener.

The kids loved every second of the visit.

Grandma and Papa, but really Grandma, made these cutie gingerbread (graham cracker) houses for decorating. They lugged them all the way here. Then they're off to Salt Lake and San Jose to make some more grandkids happy.

the candy reveal:

the anticipation:

the masterpiece:

and lots and lots of bonding time:

Then of course, it wouldn't be complete without a trip down to the strip to see the winter gardens at the Bellagio and the water & light show.

It was maybe 45 degrees by this point...look, we own coats!

And to fill in all the cracks of down time, Papa babysat so my mom and I could shop. He was so kind to play about 50 million games of basketball with Ty, take walks with Claire, and tease them all to no end. What a Grandpa!

We all had a super time. Hopefully, we didn't wear out the company too much. They've still got more fun to do.