Well, we have been in the DEEP FREEZE the last couple of weeks.  First of all we had a week of snow, snow, snow.  Didn't pile up really lots but was there and messy.  After shoveling all week they finally got us a snow blower.  Boy, does it go through the snow.  Doesn't take near as long and sure is easier on the back. 

The other thing that has happened is the Ohio Snow Rollers.  It has happened because about 1 foot of fine powder snow melted on the top and the right temperature and exact wind speed caused the snow to create roller balls.  The news stated it was very rare and even most local people had never seen the roller balls.  It is truly fascinating to see whole fields of balls and even on housetops.  Awesome!

Christmas was a special time with different events to add to the festivities.  We were able to decorate the Christmas tree at the Johnson Home and put up decorations on the mantles, tables, etc.  Looked like an old fashioned Christmas.

 

 

We were able to go on a lantern tour at the Hale Farm and Village.  It was an 1860 Christmas Eve.  The night was crisp with a full moon and fresh snow, so pretty.  We strolled through the village with a group of 11, singing Christmas carols.  As we approached a home they would invite us in and tell some Christmas tradition, play some music and at the end we were given hot cider and cakes.  Very nice evening, all remembering the birth of the Savior and what Christmas was really all about. The first picture was taken inside the visitor's center of an old sleigh.  We could not take pictures on the tour but were able to snap this one at the end.

 

 

The missionaries were invited to the Nick and Linda Ehlert Home for Christmas.  The home was the childhood home of Lorenzo Snow.  The couple are Catholic but love to share their home and the stories of Eliza and Lorenzo.  The home was beautifully decorated and they served a delicious buffet.  It was a special visit with Christmas carols and all.

 

 

 

 

We were invited to spend Christmas Eve with the Marler family.  They served a wonderful dinner, the children acted out the nativity as it was read.  The father was the donkey as his youngest daughter who was Mary rode on his back.  Very touching.  We then sang Christmas carols, talked about Christmas traditions and stories and had a wonderful evening.  Great Family!