Final Days of 2008

For the Christmas holiday we went down to Caldwell, Idaho, and stayed with Jason's parents. We had such a good time with everyone there. The year 2008 was a great one for us. We ended it in several exciting ways. First, Jason's sister Elaine got married. Second, Lauren wore her hair in pigtails. Third, we went on a fun train ride. And fourth, Jason and I were the champs of the family bowling tournament. These events are described in more detail below.

Chris and Elaine's Wedding

Elaine, Jason's sister, and Chris Johnson were married on December 27th. It was a beautiful ceremony. This is the only picture we got of them. Our neices: Maranda, Karlee, Brynlee, and Aubrie.
Aunt Stephanie and Lauren
We are so happy for Elaine and Chris!

Lauren's Do

This is the first time Lauren has had pigtails. She loves them.

Train Ride

This year the Brown family decided it would be great to go on a train ride from Horseshoe Bend to Banks and then back to Horseshoe Bend, instead of getting gifts for one another. It was probably a total of three hours, which was just right. We had a railroad car just for the Browns. We had entertainment and food and many laughs. We saw bald eagles, deer, and a blue heron. The train follows the Payette River through some pines. It was beautiful with all the snow. We had a fantastic time! Catherine and Lauren

Brenda, Lauren, Jason, and Catherine

The inside of our railroad car.

Jason, Catherine, and Lauren

After the train ride we all headed back to Grandma and Grandpa Brown's house for chili and cornbread. Yum!

Bowling Tournament

Degen, Jason's brother, and his family got the Wii for Christmas. Wii spent most of our time bowling day after day. Jason's dad got a clever idea to start a couple's tournament. There were six teams involved. Jason and I pulled off the win! It was soooo fun! I probably wouldn't be saying that if wii had lost.
Here is a picture of the champions after the tournament!
And, our certificate for the win.