Merry, Merry Christmas! This is the first time I can bring in tables and chairs and actually set places for all invited. I found some glasses and chargers and grabbed some tables and chairs from the office. I got everything set the day before our big Christmas Eve dinner.
We had our neighbor smoke us a brisket, and Jon made a ham. It is so fun as everyone arrives and fills the house with love and excitement! After dinner, we all gathered and went through the program Jon prepared. It was all so lovely!
Soon enough, it was time for everyone to be off on their way. Earlier that day, Adren had me pick up Ella's ring while he was working. She didn't know it was done, and he didn't want her to see his location picking it up. Jon and I had been out on the river trail where it is all lit up and so pretty and peaceful for the Christmas boat tours. I thought it would be a lovely place to propose! Jon took him out right when he got home to show him the spot.
Right after our Christmas program, and as everyone was chatting and gathering stuff to head out, Jon and Paisley gathered my battery candles off the mantle and ran out to the trail. They were back in no time- but Ella did ask, "Where did Jon and Paisley go?" Ahhhh! She is observant! Paisley said candles are set up and lit!
We gathered as a family and opened gifts from each other. I was tense thinking of those candles out there on the trail, hoping someone wouldn't come along and take them, just hoping it would work out! Ella was involved in the kids gift-swapping, so it was fun to have her a part of it. Then I had everyone open their jammies. We were all just chatting and I casually mentioned the trail might be lit up tonight for Christmas, and Adren and Ella should go check it out. (it wasn't lit up btw) Adren did so good- he just casually turned to Ella, "Do you want to go check it out?" Ella said, "Sure! I love walking the river trail!" What a good sport!
They left and we watched their location carefully- It's all Adren now!
They came back all smiles and full of joy! How exciting to make it all official! Congrats to Adren and Ella!
It was such a warm, balmy night! I went out on the back patio to get some fresh air after cleaning up and soon enough, everyone was gathered out there. We called the Grandparents and Ella called her parents. It was fun to hear Ella's side of the story. They were just casually walking along when she saw a bunch of candles lit in a half circle. She said, "This is creepy!" - And it would be, to come upon that in the middle of nowhere! Ha! Adren pulled her over and got down on his knee. She was totally surprised and started to cry. So sweet! Adren really wanted it to be private, just the two of them, and he said it all went great.
We are all so happy, we love Ella so much! She is very down to earth, very fun, and just fits right in with us Geertsens. We welcome her with wide open arms and tight hugs!
After all of the excitement, it was time for kids to get to bed- at least upstairs so Santa could get to work. I felt so exhausted after such a long, busy day! Before going to bed, I went out front to take in the balmy Christmas night. So strange! I checked on the kids- some were still up. I had brought a pad and sleeping bag upstairs to Paisley's room for Adren. I found him fast asleep on a blanket on her floor, too tired to even set up his bed! My engaged boy.
Soon enough, morning came! There was some controversy having Christmas in the new room, but there is so much more space. It did feel different though! These Christmases will continue to look very different, but for now, our little family is together, and this mamma is happy.
It has been such a wonderful Christmas break, all being together and talking about wedding plans. There are plenty of treats, I've started a puzzle, movies are going etc. We are missing the snow though!
Jon spent a day hiking with friends searching for some snow.
We always hold our ACHF Holiday party after the holidays. We did a pot-luck of different soups, games, and chatting with everyone. It's always fun to see those who don't come into the office very often.
Ashley sent me this photo of a new service missionary that moved into her ward. Enoch Thornock! I love that she recognized his name and knew who he was. Small world!
Paisley is heading out somewhere, looking all trendy and cute.
2025 has drawn to a close, and we are welcoming 2026. These are special years with really neat milestones. I sure love watching my kids stretch and grow into young adults. My prayer is that they will be safe, create happiness in their life, and realize there is no pure peace like the peace of Christ in their lives. Love you all!
