Christmas Day

The ladies are having fun putting together Barbies swimming pool.

We really enjoyed our Christmas morning at home. The kids emptied their stockings and opened all their presents. We played together, had cinnamon rolls, and watched our annual family video that Brian put together. Then we spent the afternoon at Larry's house. We had an elegant dinner and exchanged presents. A big hit was a gun that shot mini-marshmallows. The kids kept begging to be shot so they could eat 'em up. Leah and Jadon had fun playing with their cousins and all the new toys. We ended the day with a round of charades.

Christmas Eve

On Christmas Eve, Brian and I took the kids to the Candlelight service at FFF. The kids loved holding the lit candles and Leah got really excited when we sang "Away in a Manger". We sing it with hand motions at home daily. Then we went over to Deb's house for a Crab Leg dinner. Brant and his family made it through the snow and we had a nice dinner and gift exchange. The kids especially enjoyed running around the dark house with their new Twinkle Toe and Luminator shoes.

Snowmen

When the weather warmed up to the 30's, we got some great packing snow. We made a big snowman, but then Leah requested a little one. When we visited them the next day she gave him lots of hugs and licks.

Visiting Grandma for Christmas

Yesterday, the kids and I drove up to Dubuque to see my grandma. My parents were there as well and we had lunch and a nice gift exchange. The kids got to watch cartoons and enjoy some special treats, like these Rice Krispie Pops.

Here, Jadon the Tiger is enjoying snuggle time with Grandma. My affectionate little boy was in heaven.

Brunch with Augie Friends

Libby, Wendy, and Kim, my Augustana roommates, came over on Tuesday for a reunion/Christmas get-together. We got to meet Kim's 6 month old Molly and see Libby's baby bump; she's due in March. It was a nice time of catching up since we left the other kids with babysitters. It was so relaxing! I'm thankful for these good friends and that we've been able to keep in touch over the years.

Jadon's Party and Sledding

Jadon's last day of school before Christmas vacation was Friday, Dec. 17th. They had a small Christmas party which included decorating a stocking ornament, making a candy Christmas tree, and having cookies and milk.

On Saturday, Brian watched the kids while I went into the QC and finished up Christmas shopping. I made it back in time to go sledding with the family at Sinnissippi Park again. The kids love it!

Brian's Work Party

Work parties at the DC are not too glamorous, but they do serve a nice lunch and Santa is there to listen to wishes and pass out goodie bags. There is also cookie decorating and balloons. I think Leah was more excited to go to dad's work party than her own class party. We had a nice time.