Annie's Christmas Play

I can't find the program, but Annie's kindergarten class did a play called something like, "A Flea on Santa's Tree?" Storyline: Santa needs something to help top his tree. He keeps trying different animals, but it's not working. In the meantime, his guardian angel is getting more and more frustrated with him because he isn't taking care of himself. They performed the play twice to practice with other classes and then twice for 'real' performances where parents were invited. We went to the second parental showing (along with 3 classes). The room was PACKED.

Annie was the Guardian Angel - and MAD that Santa isn't taking a rest! She actually started to cry about the middle (she goes up and down to the microphone 3-4 times) - I think just tired and overwhelmed, but she continued her part! Here, Santa finally found what he needed for the top of his Christmas tree - An Angel!

The end of the play. It was adorable. Poor Annie; she said she was embarrassed because there were so many people. I actually started to tear up along with her. Emily's preschool bus had been in an accident 2 hours prior (she was totally fine; bus wasn't moving - another car just slid into it) and I was still highly emotional.

But - the show must go on! Christmas Eve we had to run to Home Depot for a little present for Andy and found decorations on sale. I have wanted to get something to top our tree for years but couldn't even decide between a star or an angel. This year I finally decided, thanks to Annie's part and my love of angels!!! She is beautiful on our tree!

The Christmas Trees

We have two Christmas trees - a little one we've had since we've been married that the kids are allowed to touch and our one we cut down that they aren't supposed to touch! Emily redecorating!

Our quick 'family' picture on the Sunday before Christmas. Andy had strep throat (but didn't know it yet) and tried to get the kids together while I was finishing getting ready.

Kids didn't completely love the idea, Andy forget the flash, and we're missing one kid - but we have documentation!!! (And yes, I'm the one that curled the girls' hair! yippee!!!)

Those Crazies!

We've had snow on the ground since December 1st - it started snowing and hasn't gone away yet! Two weeks ago, Andy took the kids to go sledding at our favorite hill. Unlike last year, he was able to get pictures of the (cold) fun time! (Those crazies are sledding again this afternoon!!!) Annie and Emily trekking up the hill. Ben is ready to go!

He hasn't yet learned the fine art of steering, but it will come!

Cutie girls! Annie is learning the value of layers - even if they are a little bit uncomfortable...

On the circle sled. Last year, I sucked it up and bought a nice $30 2-person sled with lots of padding; this was after I went off a jump and messed up my back and had to see a chiropractor twice a week for several weeks. The kids were playing with it in the front yard and didn't bring it in one night. NO MORE SLED - we have no idea where it is (or who took it) and are very sad... :(

Loving the snow. This was the end of the 90 minute workout!