Thursday, December 20, 2007

Our Christmas Letter

2007 has been a great year for the Hilton Family. Joseph made his debut in the world on December 28th, 2006. He has been a huge joy to our family. In addition to eating and sleeping, he loves to walk while shaking his hands, laughing and smiling the whole time. Maria is one of the cutest kids we have ever seen! (No bias). She has the sweetest expressions and loves to give hugs and kisses. She enjoys playing quietly with her dolls. Annemarie is growing up fast. She just turned five and is learning how to read. She is developing a kind nature in which she will share things she wants when a sibling wants them more. She also taught herself how to play chess! Levi is doing excellent in first grade. He recently took apart a computer, salvaging pieces that his dad could not. One of his favorite hobbies is capturing animals such as lizards, turtles, toads, bees and even ducks! Lani continues to be an amazing wife, mother and home CEO. Her family is the center of her life. She also teaches the Old Testament at 6:00 AM every morning to fourteen high school students. She spoke at sessions of Especially For Youth in Mississippi and Utah. As part of her training she got to meet Susan W. Tanner, which was a highlight. John continues to enjoy working with the Church Educational System. His hobbies include speaking to LDS youth and writing. He also went to China with his two brothers. He loved being with the Chinese people. The Hilton Family loves being together. We had our first family campout which thrilled the kids. Going to the beach, zoo, park, and playing together are other family favorites. Jesus Christ and His church are central to our lives and we are grateful for the many blessings we have received...not the least of which is knowing you! Our love and best wishes to you this next year.





Monday, December 17, 2007

Trip to Universal

We got back recently from a great trip to Universal Orlando.
The highlights were watching our kids have so much fun, meeting the Grinch, talking with Donkey (from Shrek), and especially Lani and John participating in FEAR FACTOR. Our stunts included grabbing bean bags from a tank filled with eels, catching octupi, and hanging from a bar 7 stories in the air, with fans blowing. It was a blast.
Here are some pictures, maybe if I get a little cooler I'll be able to upload the video. It's intense :)