We arrived in California and was able to witness Bryson's sister's wedding, Janae, to our new brother in law, Kale. Our girls immediately enjoyed being able to wear shorts in December and helped Grandpa picks tangerines from the trees.
We didn't set up our tree in Germany, so we were excited to help Grandma and Grandpa set of theirs.
Madelyn got very sick a couple of days after arriving. She was completely pale and throwing up around the clock.
Only a few days after arriving in California, we were struck with the news that Bryson's dad had suddenly passed away from a heart attack while on his lunch break at work, Monday, December 22, 2014. We are all heartbroken. We were all united in grief and strength that our Savior provided to us during this time.
I have always loved this picture of Bryson and his dad on our wedding day. I remember the toast that Carl gave at our reception. "Life is like a boat on the ocean. Sometimes the waters are calm and sometimes the waters are rough, but we are always on the boat together..."
Bryson and I tear up almost every time it's Coralee's turn to say the prayer because she always includes, "Please bless Grandpa... he's not here, but we still love him."
We were so grateful to have lasting memories of Grandpa just hours before his passing. And we were able to have an amazing Christmas united with lot and lots of family and friends.
And then on Christmas Eve, it was Coralee's turn to get sick.
The things you see on California highways.
Helping by picking up pine cones.
Listening to David play the Messiah sing along.
Playing restaurant with Heather.
While visiting my Aunt Jill, we were able to talk more about genealogy.
Christmas Day had arrived!
Helping wash the tangerines that we picked from the tree.
Airplane ride back to Germany. We LOVE all of our family!
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