Twas a wonderful Christmas but it's so busy around here. Will have to update later.
Showing posts with label Christmas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christmas. Show all posts
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Pre-K Christmas
Last night was Piper's pre-k Christmas program and it was so cute! She was so so so so so excited and just thrilled to finally get to wear the Christmas outfit that my mom had gotten for her. She looks so cute in it but that red bow headband is the icing on the cake. We had a pose session in front of the tree.
The other really cute thing about Piper's program was that Caroline was just so excited FOR Piper. She wanted to wear her Christmas outfit too. She kept saying such nice things to Piper and I have to say that since we've moved into my mom's the girls have gotten along really well. I've made sure to tell Caroline what a good big sister she is and how much it means to Piper.
It was a little disorganized at first but the kids were taken backstage and they all came out in these adorable little choir capes. They sang eight songs and while they didn't always know all the words it was funny seeing them sing the words they did know and all their expressions. You could see how proud she was to be up on stage.
At the end of the performance, Santa came in and the kids were so excited. I love that Piper has no fear of Santa and takes any chance she gets to sit on his lap. (Bryce and Caroline haven't sat on his lap since 2005.) Just another example of how different kids can be.
But after she got off Santa's lap she couldn't wait to come back and see all of us. She was positively radiant with excitement from her show and so proud of herself. It was absolutely adorable.
Monday, December 17, 2012
5 Days to Go!
This is going to be the week that drags on and on and on and on and on....
Although maybe that's not a terrible thing because I have a bunch of things to do but I just want it to be over. I want to be off work, have the kids off school, have the house sold and let it be Christmas.
Thankfully our week isn't quite as busy as the last two weeks were though. Tonight is Piper's pre-k Christmas concert which I am guessing will be a hoot given all that we know about her, her peers, and how things go in her class. She is super excited about performing and has told me she's going to throw in a couple of "Peppa the Pig" snorts during Jingle Bells. I might lose it if she actually does it. That kid is a complete riot sometimes.
Nothing planned for Tuesday evening but I need to finish my biscotti baking for the kids' teachers. Wednesday night Bryce has soccer practice and needs his haircut too since he missed his appointment last week due to practice. Thursday is settlement in the afternoon so Jay and I are going to finish our Christmas shopping that morning and run some errands afterward. Caroline has a 5pm orthodontist appointment. Then on Friday, I will go into work but probably not for all day. Maybe, just maybe I can come home and wrap a few gifts because Jason is taking me out for dinner that night. Saturday night is my mom's Christmas party and since we live there I will be helping her prepare. Sunday is up in the air but I know we do need to wrap but I'm thinking it might be most helpful to my mom if we took the kids out for the day so she can get her wrapping done. I feel like we've "neglected" the kids this autumn because of the whole house selling process and I'd like to do something Christmasy with them. I think it will depend on the weather though. Bryce really wants to see the DC monuments and so we might do that or save it for a day during the week of Christmas.
Just hoping I don't forget anyone with gifts this year. I'm fairly organized with my Excel spreadsheet that Jay and I have saved on our mutual Drop Box folder (can I tell you how much I love Drop Box?) but this year I am just not feeling as organized or planned as usual.
Work is going to be tough this week too. Without a lot to actually do, and my supervisor and her supervisor out (in addition to lots of other people on campus that I work with) - my motivation is rock bottom. Plus this damp, foggy weather doesn't exactly feel Christmasy.
But, I'll keep playing the Christmas music in my office, enjoying the fact that we are all moved out and the house is about to sell and the kids are getting super excited with holiday spirit. And for all of that, I am extremely grateful.
Although maybe that's not a terrible thing because I have a bunch of things to do but I just want it to be over. I want to be off work, have the kids off school, have the house sold and let it be Christmas.
Thankfully our week isn't quite as busy as the last two weeks were though. Tonight is Piper's pre-k Christmas concert which I am guessing will be a hoot given all that we know about her, her peers, and how things go in her class. She is super excited about performing and has told me she's going to throw in a couple of "Peppa the Pig" snorts during Jingle Bells. I might lose it if she actually does it. That kid is a complete riot sometimes.
Nothing planned for Tuesday evening but I need to finish my biscotti baking for the kids' teachers. Wednesday night Bryce has soccer practice and needs his haircut too since he missed his appointment last week due to practice. Thursday is settlement in the afternoon so Jay and I are going to finish our Christmas shopping that morning and run some errands afterward. Caroline has a 5pm orthodontist appointment. Then on Friday, I will go into work but probably not for all day. Maybe, just maybe I can come home and wrap a few gifts because Jason is taking me out for dinner that night. Saturday night is my mom's Christmas party and since we live there I will be helping her prepare. Sunday is up in the air but I know we do need to wrap but I'm thinking it might be most helpful to my mom if we took the kids out for the day so she can get her wrapping done. I feel like we've "neglected" the kids this autumn because of the whole house selling process and I'd like to do something Christmasy with them. I think it will depend on the weather though. Bryce really wants to see the DC monuments and so we might do that or save it for a day during the week of Christmas.
Just hoping I don't forget anyone with gifts this year. I'm fairly organized with my Excel spreadsheet that Jay and I have saved on our mutual Drop Box folder (can I tell you how much I love Drop Box?) but this year I am just not feeling as organized or planned as usual.
Work is going to be tough this week too. Without a lot to actually do, and my supervisor and her supervisor out (in addition to lots of other people on campus that I work with) - my motivation is rock bottom. Plus this damp, foggy weather doesn't exactly feel Christmasy.
But, I'll keep playing the Christmas music in my office, enjoying the fact that we are all moved out and the house is about to sell and the kids are getting super excited with holiday spirit. And for all of that, I am extremely grateful.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Christmas Wishes
It's that time folks, time to make Christmas lists! I'm a bit preoccupied right now so this is tough for me. All I can think about is pack pack pack and the thought of bringing NEW stuff in makes me nauseous. But, this is why I'm happy we are moving out BEFORE Christmas instead of right after. And I'm thankful that my mom is a good sport - I can have things delivered to her house.
To be honest, I really don't have much on the kids' lists this year. But I think, gulp, this is going to be the year of the Nintendo DS. Yup. I've been broken down. And given the prices of those things, they won't be getting a lot more than that. But Caroline and Bryce are prepared for that and I think that they want one SO much that getting one and maybe one game will be a BIG deal. Piper, however, is not old enough for a DS yet and while she's still getting a lot of use out of our old Leapsters, I think I'm going to get her a V-tech InnoTab. It's a tablet (like a kid's iPad) but it's all learning activities and I know she will like it. It's not as expensive as a DS but it will be a big hit. It's funny to see how outdated our Leapsters are after only a few years - but they were definitely a great gift and I think the kids will continue to use them because they do like the games. The other good thing about tech gifts is that they are SMALL and will be less to put away/store since we'll be living at my mom's and not want to overburden the house!
In addition to their technology gifts, I've already gotten all three kids some things for their new rooms in the new house. I kind of feel a little bad for giving them things they can't use right away but I know that when we move in these things will be very appreciated. I've gotten each of the girls one of these because they saw something similar in the model house and LOVED them. They are both kind of into fairies right now so I think these will look so cute in their new rooms.
In addition, I've gotten all three of them some removable wall decals to decorate their rooms. Bryce will be getting Star Wars, Caroline puppies and kittens, and Piper fairy garden. Bryce already has some sports ones and they are great because they don't damage the wall when you remove them and look great on the wall.
As for that, I'd like to get them each a few smaller things but I'm not quite sure what. I also know I will need to come up with some gift ideas for their grandmothers too. We already told Caroline that we are going to get her a new bike for her birthday (she gets to pick it out) so at least that will be easy. Bryce and Caroline both have some books on their gift lists too and perhaps a Kindle giftcard for Caroline too.
I think Jason and I are going to either not do gifts at all for one another or keep it very small. I'm already in a slight panic about what to give our family members. It might just end up being a gift card Christmas this year much to my dislike but that might be the extent of what I'm capable of this year. Next year though....I will make up for it and get back to the usual thought I put into gifts.
To be honest, I really don't have much on the kids' lists this year. But I think, gulp, this is going to be the year of the Nintendo DS. Yup. I've been broken down. And given the prices of those things, they won't be getting a lot more than that. But Caroline and Bryce are prepared for that and I think that they want one SO much that getting one and maybe one game will be a BIG deal. Piper, however, is not old enough for a DS yet and while she's still getting a lot of use out of our old Leapsters, I think I'm going to get her a V-tech InnoTab. It's a tablet (like a kid's iPad) but it's all learning activities and I know she will like it. It's not as expensive as a DS but it will be a big hit. It's funny to see how outdated our Leapsters are after only a few years - but they were definitely a great gift and I think the kids will continue to use them because they do like the games. The other good thing about tech gifts is that they are SMALL and will be less to put away/store since we'll be living at my mom's and not want to overburden the house!
In addition to their technology gifts, I've already gotten all three kids some things for their new rooms in the new house. I kind of feel a little bad for giving them things they can't use right away but I know that when we move in these things will be very appreciated. I've gotten each of the girls one of these because they saw something similar in the model house and LOVED them. They are both kind of into fairies right now so I think these will look so cute in their new rooms.
In addition, I've gotten all three of them some removable wall decals to decorate their rooms. Bryce will be getting Star Wars, Caroline puppies and kittens, and Piper fairy garden. Bryce already has some sports ones and they are great because they don't damage the wall when you remove them and look great on the wall.
As for that, I'd like to get them each a few smaller things but I'm not quite sure what. I also know I will need to come up with some gift ideas for their grandmothers too. We already told Caroline that we are going to get her a new bike for her birthday (she gets to pick it out) so at least that will be easy. Bryce and Caroline both have some books on their gift lists too and perhaps a Kindle giftcard for Caroline too.
I think Jason and I are going to either not do gifts at all for one another or keep it very small. I'm already in a slight panic about what to give our family members. It might just end up being a gift card Christmas this year much to my dislike but that might be the extent of what I'm capable of this year. Next year though....I will make up for it and get back to the usual thought I put into gifts.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Monster Christmas Post
It's been a very busy week so far and we've still got a few days to go.
I was off Thursday and Friday and while it sounds nice to have been home without the kids, it was a lot of errands and housework. Got the house cleaned and ready for Christmas. Finished wrapping gifts. Attended Bryce and Caroline's class parties. On Friday evening, Bryce had soccer practice so I made hot chocolate for the girls and we took a ride around looking at lights and listening to Christmas music.
Christmas Eve started early with us arriving at my in-law's by 10am for brunch. Usually we don't arrive until lunch time and it's just too hectic so we decided to have brunch instead. Once we finished up a delicious meal, we opened gifts. The kids were sooooo excited and they made out like bandits thanks to Santa Nana and Big Dad!
I was off Thursday and Friday and while it sounds nice to have been home without the kids, it was a lot of errands and housework. Got the house cleaned and ready for Christmas. Finished wrapping gifts. Attended Bryce and Caroline's class parties. On Friday evening, Bryce had soccer practice so I made hot chocolate for the girls and we took a ride around looking at lights and listening to Christmas music.
Christmas Eve started early with us arriving at my in-law's by 10am for brunch. Usually we don't arrive until lunch time and it's just too hectic so we decided to have brunch instead. Once we finished up a delicious meal, we opened gifts. The kids were sooooo excited and they made out like bandits thanks to Santa Nana and Big Dad!
The rest of Sandy's family joined us in the afternoon for dinner and visiting but we left so that we were home before 8:30pm. All 3 kids were in bed easily and Jason and I waited up until they were all asleep.
We exchanged our gifts and then played Santa. I finally got into bed around midnight and then slept badly as I usually do on Christmas Eve - I'm just so excited to see the kids' excitement when they wake up!!!
At 6:53am, I heard Bryce wake up and start waking up his sisters. In they came to our room and the excitement was at its peak! They could see their stockings hanging on the banister and knew that Santa had been there. Jason went down and got the cameras ready and the kids waited at the top of the steps (see previous post) for the clearance to go downstairs. And then they were off - full sprint!!!
Soon after (by 9am), all 3 kids were outside again riding the Razor Scooters that Nana and Big Dad had given them the day before.
The kids had another gift opening session and were thoroughly excited and grateful for all the things they received.
Have you ever seen so much excitement about a book light?
Star Wars!!! Bryce had a very Star Wars Christmas:
Piper models her new Ravens warm up suit. The kid gets her jollies from posing for photos these days:
Caroline models her new hat from Uncle Kevin and Aunt Kelly. It's oh so fashionable and from Justice!! She's been wearing it most of the time since then.
Piper between outfit changes playing with her new Strawberry Shortcake remote control car. She just wasn't interested in wearing the rest of her clothes at this point:
Then the adults opened gifts - Bertie got a Wii!
Pop Pop got an iPad! (I call him iPop now.)
And then we had dinner (and I experimented with my new bounce flash - such better lighting!):
And then after a few more rounds of cookies, coffee, and merriment, we headed home for a long winter's nap. Actually, there wasn't much napping going on for me - I decided to reorganize the basement in preparation for cleaning up the next day and then we spent all day Monday cleaning up and reorganizing. The kids played with their new gifts and messed up things that I had just cleaned up.
At 6:53am, I heard Bryce wake up and start waking up his sisters. In they came to our room and the excitement was at its peak! They could see their stockings hanging on the banister and knew that Santa had been there. Jason went down and got the cameras ready and the kids waited at the top of the steps (see previous post) for the clearance to go downstairs. And then they were off - full sprint!!!
Piper was a little dazed at the gifts and took some encouragement to dig in:
The Millennium Falcon was a big hit:
Caroline was pretty much excited about everything:
Piper took a long time to open her gifts because she would get so consumed with whatever she had just opened:
After a little bit of clean up and breakfast we headed over to my mom's for Christmas with them. We spent the rest of the day with my parents, sister, brother, SIL, & MeeMaw.
Usually we go up to my grandmother's the day after Christmas but this year to celebrate the holiday with my dad's extended family but this year there were some changes to the schedule so my grandmother came down and spent Christmas Eve and day with my family.
The kids had another gift opening session and were thoroughly excited and grateful for all the things they received.
Have you ever seen so much excitement about a book light?
Pop Pop got an iPad! (I call him iPop now.)
And then we had dinner (and I experimented with my new bounce flash - such better lighting!):
Jason managed to get Bryce outside to try out his new soccer goal and I snapped a few photos with my new zoom lens - yay for closer photos and not having to chase the kids (as much) for a pic:
We had my parents over for dinner and spent a fun evening playing Wii and visiting. Bryce fell in love with my dad's iPad too - I think he liked the calculator the best (seriously).
On Tuesday we barely made it in time for Bryce and Piper's noon haircuts and then as soon as they were finished we went to Jason's grandmothers to visit. Jesse's daughter, Lydia, is in town for a visit too so after lunch with Gran and Pap we went across the street to Kelly and Jesse's for pizza and Wii. ] We took a few photos too - Jason, Kelly, Jeremy and their cousin, Nate (I cannot believe he is 16!!!)
And the kids with Lydia - I couldn't get Piper to keep her eyes open:
And a lovely, very grown up looking shot of Ms. Caroline:
Another semi-late night but we made it home for a somewhat decent bedtime and then Jason and I played some Harry Potter Wii - yes, we are a little addicted.
Then on Wednesday, we got some more things done around the house and then headed down to our friends in Columbia for time with Zoe and Taki's extended family. No photos because the kids ran around like maniacs and we sat and enjoyed grownup conversation.
And that brings us to today, Thursday. Today we're having Jason's college roommate and his wife over for an early dinner. We haven't seen them since they had their daughter a year ago! Baked potato soup is in the crockpot, Peapod just made their delivery, and the kids are cleaning up their rooms so it's time for me to sign off and get some more clean up done.
On Tuesday we barely made it in time for Bryce and Piper's noon haircuts and then as soon as they were finished we went to Jason's grandmothers to visit. Jesse's daughter, Lydia, is in town for a visit too so after lunch with Gran and Pap we went across the street to Kelly and Jesse's for pizza and Wii. ] We took a few photos too - Jason, Kelly, Jeremy and their cousin, Nate (I cannot believe he is 16!!!)
And the kids with Lydia - I couldn't get Piper to keep her eyes open:
And a lovely, very grown up looking shot of Ms. Caroline:
Another semi-late night but we made it home for a somewhat decent bedtime and then Jason and I played some Harry Potter Wii - yes, we are a little addicted.
Then on Wednesday, we got some more things done around the house and then headed down to our friends in Columbia for time with Zoe and Taki's extended family. No photos because the kids ran around like maniacs and we sat and enjoyed grownup conversation.
And that brings us to today, Thursday. Today we're having Jason's college roommate and his wife over for an early dinner. We haven't seen them since they had their daughter a year ago! Baked potato soup is in the crockpot, Peapod just made their delivery, and the kids are cleaning up their rooms so it's time for me to sign off and get some more clean up done.
Monday, December 19, 2011
The Santa Talk
Yesterday, Caroline was down in the basement with me helping me to wrap our family Christmas gifts. She kind of wandered back to the back part of the basement and I got a little nervous because of the mysterious piles of Amazon.com boxes and other unlabeled cardboard boxes that clearly aren't usually there. However, it wasn't those boxes that she zeroed in on. Nope. She noticed the container of wrapping paper and in that container was wrapping paper she recognized from the gifts from Santa last year. Doh. Although I've been talking for a year about the fact that Caroline has been questioning the whole Santa story, this was kind of a big deal to her.
When she asked me about the wrapping paper, I kind of nonchalantly said, "Oh, well Santa leaves me the left over paper."
When she asked me about the wrapping paper, I kind of nonchalantly said, "Oh, well Santa leaves me the left over paper."
To that she replied, "Oh come on, mommy. Tell me the truth YOU are Santa."
And to that I told her to just wait a minute, I had something I wanted her to read. And this is where I am bowing down and thanking the wonderful people at Pinterest. Thanks to them, a few weeks ago, someone posted this letter she had written to her daughter about the Santa question. When I read it, I almost cried. It summed up the exact way I was feeling about Santa and how even if you know that Santa isn't truly a real person, that he is still real in our hearts and that Christmas is still magic and wonderful. So you'll excuse me for basically ripping off the letter because I know I couldn't say it any better myself. I ran upstairs, printed the letter I'd already prepared and took it down for Caroline to read.
Dear Caroline,
You asked a very good question: “Are you Santa?”
I know you’ve wanted the answer to this question for a long time, and I’ve had to give it careful thought to know just what to say.
The answer is no. I am not Santa. There is no one Santa.
I am the person who fills your stockings with presents, though. I also choose and wrap the presents under the tree, the same way my mom did for me, and the same way her mom did for her. (And yes, Daddy helps, too.) I imagine you will someday do this for your children, and I know you will love seeing them run down the stairs on Christmas morning. You will love seeing them sit under the tree, their small faces lit with Christmas lights.
This won’t make you Santa, though. Santa is bigger than any person, and his work has gone on longer than any of us have lived. What he does is simple, but it is powerful. He teaches children how to have belief in something they can’t see or touch.
It’s a big job, and it’s an important one. Throughout your life, you will need this capacity to believe: in yourself, in your friends, in your talents and in your family. You’ll also need to believe in things you can’t measure or even hold in your hand. Here, I am talking about love, that great power that will light your life from the inside out, even during its darkest, coldest moments.
Santa is a teacher, and I have been his student, and now you know the secret of how he gets down all those chimneys on Christmas Eve: he has help from all the people whose hearts he’s filled with joy.
With full hearts, people like Daddy and me take our turns helping Santa do a job that would otherwise be impossible.
So, no. I am not Santa. Santa is love and magic and hope and happiness. I’m on his team, and now you are, too. I love you and I always will.
Love, Mommy
She started reading it and stopped midway through to ask me some questions. I told her she had to read it all the way through and then we could talk. Quite honestly, I'm not sure she 100% got it, but knowing how smart she is, she got something out of it. She decided to give the letter back to me but I will probably give it to her and tell her to keep it some where secret. She seemed okay with it and I told her that Christmas really is a magical and wonderful time and that it's important to me for her to keep the spirit of Christmas in her heart.
We had a bunch of hugs and she sat on my lap for a little while after that. (She never sits on my lap anymore!) And randomly, as we were watching gifts we were also watching The Polar Express which is a pretty magical movie in and of itself about believing, so I thought it was quite fitting.
I know she can't believe in the true embodiment of Santa forever and I wish it wasn't ending so soon, but I truly hope that by showing her a different way to believe that I could make it so she wasn't feeling a letdown from the magic like I remember feeling when I figured it out. I also feel as though I have an obligation to my kids to tell them the truth about things since I tell them the truth about pretty much everything else and Santa should be no different.
And to that I told her to just wait a minute, I had something I wanted her to read. And this is where I am bowing down and thanking the wonderful people at Pinterest. Thanks to them, a few weeks ago, someone posted this letter she had written to her daughter about the Santa question. When I read it, I almost cried. It summed up the exact way I was feeling about Santa and how even if you know that Santa isn't truly a real person, that he is still real in our hearts and that Christmas is still magic and wonderful. So you'll excuse me for basically ripping off the letter because I know I couldn't say it any better myself. I ran upstairs, printed the letter I'd already prepared and took it down for Caroline to read.
Dear Caroline,
You asked a very good question: “Are you Santa?”
I know you’ve wanted the answer to this question for a long time, and I’ve had to give it careful thought to know just what to say.
The answer is no. I am not Santa. There is no one Santa.
I am the person who fills your stockings with presents, though. I also choose and wrap the presents under the tree, the same way my mom did for me, and the same way her mom did for her. (And yes, Daddy helps, too.) I imagine you will someday do this for your children, and I know you will love seeing them run down the stairs on Christmas morning. You will love seeing them sit under the tree, their small faces lit with Christmas lights.
This won’t make you Santa, though. Santa is bigger than any person, and his work has gone on longer than any of us have lived. What he does is simple, but it is powerful. He teaches children how to have belief in something they can’t see or touch.
It’s a big job, and it’s an important one. Throughout your life, you will need this capacity to believe: in yourself, in your friends, in your talents and in your family. You’ll also need to believe in things you can’t measure or even hold in your hand. Here, I am talking about love, that great power that will light your life from the inside out, even during its darkest, coldest moments.
Santa is a teacher, and I have been his student, and now you know the secret of how he gets down all those chimneys on Christmas Eve: he has help from all the people whose hearts he’s filled with joy.
With full hearts, people like Daddy and me take our turns helping Santa do a job that would otherwise be impossible.
So, no. I am not Santa. Santa is love and magic and hope and happiness. I’m on his team, and now you are, too. I love you and I always will.
Love, Mommy
She started reading it and stopped midway through to ask me some questions. I told her she had to read it all the way through and then we could talk. Quite honestly, I'm not sure she 100% got it, but knowing how smart she is, she got something out of it. She decided to give the letter back to me but I will probably give it to her and tell her to keep it some where secret. She seemed okay with it and I told her that Christmas really is a magical and wonderful time and that it's important to me for her to keep the spirit of Christmas in her heart.
We had a bunch of hugs and she sat on my lap for a little while after that. (She never sits on my lap anymore!) And randomly, as we were watching gifts we were also watching The Polar Express which is a pretty magical movie in and of itself about believing, so I thought it was quite fitting.
I know she can't believe in the true embodiment of Santa forever and I wish it wasn't ending so soon, but I truly hope that by showing her a different way to believe that I could make it so she wasn't feeling a letdown from the magic like I remember feeling when I figured it out. I also feel as though I have an obligation to my kids to tell them the truth about things since I tell them the truth about pretty much everything else and Santa should be no different.
Friday, December 02, 2011
Kid Christmas Gifting
Thought I'd share the main gifts the kids are getting for Christmas this year since the last time I posted about it I was completely without ideas! (I didn't get most of these things from TRU, it's just the easiest to link to them - Amazon.com had much better prices and I have free shipping with them - score!)
Caroline
Password Journal - an 8 year old's dream - you can keep your brother out!
Headband Making Kit - the girl LOVES headbands lately - I thought she'd like jazzing up a few on her own
20Q - I got one of these for each Caroline and Bryce - it's some kind of magic game where it knows what you're thinking. At least that's how they told me about it - they are amazed and I figured with that amazement factor might go some fighting, so getting them each one will be more fun for all of us.
Lego Harry Potter Wii game - this is actually for her birthday, but I'm excited to give it to her because she's been jealous of Bryce's Star Wars Lego Wii game. This one is for books 1-4 which is perfect since those are the books she's read. I really like the Lego Wii games - great for their age group and fun to play with a grownup. (Did I mention that I like to play the Wii Lego games when the kids aren't around?)
Bryce
Millennium Falcon - The boy is into Star Wars so how could we NOT get him this? Yay for Star Wars!
Hexbug Habitat - These are nifty toys and Bryce likes bugs!
Lego Batman Wii game - He's way into superheros too - so this should go over well. The only issue we might have is that we only have one Wii so playtime will continue to be monitored and shared.
20Q
Piper
Tangled Dress Up Dress - it's purple, it's a Disney princess, it's for dress up. That's about it!
Loving Family Mobile Home - Caroline got the Loving Family doll house when she was 3 and it has now been passed down to Piper. Piper plays with it a LOT and I'm so excited to give her this. It just expands the play time for that awesome toy. I also got her 2 more rooms of furniture. The Loving Family will finally have a TV - Caroline has been saying that since she got it five years ago.
Nickelodeon Wii Fit - This is cool because it uses the balance board too and Piper always wants to use it and we don't have things she can do on it. This will be fun for her to do with Nana on their days at home together. Who doesn't want to get fit with Dora and Diego?
I also got all 3 kids a Disney plush - Mickey for Bryce and a different Minnie Mouse for each of the girls. I thought these would be fun to have along on our Disney trip in April. And they'll look super cute hanging out of their stockings on Christmas morning.
I actually finished up my shopping for them this morning online so, except for some stocking stuffers, I managed to get all their shopping done without a trip to the store. It's gotten exceedingly easier since they actually know what they want now. Yahoo for that!
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Post-Christmas
Yesterday was our veg out, pajama day after 3 days of Christmas, we needed it. Kids were on excellent behavior for 3 days which means that yesterday, as a down day, was not so great behavior wise. Lots of fighting and all of a sudden all 3 of them are biting. WTH? Although I think it has to do with the fact that the biting comes as a result of them being in close proximity (wrestling/laying on each other). We've already had a bunch of incidents today.
Tonight we're heading down to visit with some friends and I'm looking forward to getting out with them as it generally means they're happier. I've been super tired and achy since Sunday evening and thinking it's some kind of weird viral thing. Caroline still has that yucko cough and Piper seems to have a little head cold. I just keep taking ibuprofen and drinking a lot of tea.
Christmas wrappings and bags were put away on Sunday before I went to bed (very late) but not all gifts are put away - although it's mostly toys laying out which there's almost no point to cleaning up because the second it's put away, someone drags it back out.
All 6 Zhu Zhus are now accounted for. The final one was found by me yesterday when I was playing Wii Party with Bryce where you hide the Wii remotes. It was kind of wedged under a bag that had been previously hidden by the extra large wrapping trash bag.
Today it's kid laundry day and more organization. I want to run out to Dollar Tree at some point and get a bunch of the small bins they have there for organizing the kids' kitchen and some baby doll stuff that Piper and Caroline got. Not today, but sometime before the break is over.
Piper already ripped the new baby doll stroller she got on Sunday. You can probably guess how. Yep, sitting and strapping herself into it. She doesn't like that she's not supposed to sit in it! I will fix it but wanted her to have a consequence.
For some reason this year I'm kind of sad about the holiday already being almost over. In recent years I've been glad when the Christmas music stopped and I could take down the tree. Not sure why. Maybe it's just been a really good holiday.
Looking forward to more visits with family/friends in the coming days too because that's what the holiday is all about, after all.
Tonight we're heading down to visit with some friends and I'm looking forward to getting out with them as it generally means they're happier. I've been super tired and achy since Sunday evening and thinking it's some kind of weird viral thing. Caroline still has that yucko cough and Piper seems to have a little head cold. I just keep taking ibuprofen and drinking a lot of tea.
Christmas wrappings and bags were put away on Sunday before I went to bed (very late) but not all gifts are put away - although it's mostly toys laying out which there's almost no point to cleaning up because the second it's put away, someone drags it back out.
All 6 Zhu Zhus are now accounted for. The final one was found by me yesterday when I was playing Wii Party with Bryce where you hide the Wii remotes. It was kind of wedged under a bag that had been previously hidden by the extra large wrapping trash bag.
Today it's kid laundry day and more organization. I want to run out to Dollar Tree at some point and get a bunch of the small bins they have there for organizing the kids' kitchen and some baby doll stuff that Piper and Caroline got. Not today, but sometime before the break is over.
Piper already ripped the new baby doll stroller she got on Sunday. You can probably guess how. Yep, sitting and strapping herself into it. She doesn't like that she's not supposed to sit in it! I will fix it but wanted her to have a consequence.
For some reason this year I'm kind of sad about the holiday already being almost over. In recent years I've been glad when the Christmas music stopped and I could take down the tree. Not sure why. Maybe it's just been a really good holiday.
Looking forward to more visits with family/friends in the coming days too because that's what the holiday is all about, after all.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Christmas 2010
A lovely Christmas was had by all and thankfully the storm didn't dump as much snow as expected or as soon as thought and we managed to make it to my grandmother's and back without issue and Lydia arrived safely from Florida!! So now, here's what you wanted (or at least I'm guessing you want since you read this blog) - photos and stories!
Christmas Eve at my IL's (Nana & Big Dad)
Kids were on great behavior which was a bit startling given how difficult the previous 24 hours had been, but I guess they were getting it out of their system. After a quick lunch, we opened gifts and of course, the kids went first! I love this photo - Sandy (Mrs. Claus) getting them started with gifts - they are listening so well!
No problems getting anyone to bed and then Jason and I exchanged gifts, which is so nice to do in peace. Someday we'll do it on Christmas with the kids but right now we'd have no time because as soon as they are done it's time to get all the toys out of their packaging!! Who cares that mommy got a new lens or daddy got a new golf glove??
Anyway, when we finally got to bed that night, I think I was almost as excited as the kids. The past couple of years I have a hard time sleeping on Christmas Eve as I'm just so excited for the morning. I went to bed after midnight, got up with a crying Piper at 2:45 and then had a hard time going back to sleep. I think after that I only kind of dozed and then was up before 7am waiting for the kids to stir - which Caroline soon did. She woke Bryce without issue and then woke Piper who was NOT happy to be woken up! But she came around in time for the annual shot on the steps, but I had to hold her:
They randomly opened stockings first because they are right there on the steps (even though they know the good stuff is in the family room) and then made their way to Christmas land. Both Caroline and Piper opened their American Girl dolls first! I was so excited!
Piper finally got her "purple baby" (I had changed the outfit to the one she'd seen in the catalog) and named her "Purple Lola" as she names all her dolls "Lola" but this one must be special as she has a distinct name. Bryce was excited about all his gifts but I was the happiest when he opened the Monster Truck Ramp and he exclaimed, "This is JUST what I wanted!" Truth be told that was a last minute pick up for him and it wasn't exactly what I'd wanted to get him, so you can imagine how thrilled I was to get that reaction:
One of the things Piper got was the Olivia dress up set and she promptly put on one of the outfits but when I tried to take her photo, she wouldn't let me. So naturally, I chased her down.
Bryce was thoroughly happy with his bug sucker too! Poor kid has no bugs to suck up right now though, but that didn't stop him from playing with it! Caroline played pretty much all day with her American Girl doll and earlier that morning decided that the doll's name is Emily. So here, meet Emily:
I'm so proud of how well she's taking care of her already! (That was part of the deal with getting such a nice doll!) As the kids played, we called the grandparents to wish them Merry Christmas. My MIL, Sandy, got on the phone and told the kids that Santa had dropped off 3 gifts at our house overnight from her and they were in the closet. The kids were so excited and the girls got their American Girl pets and Bryce got a robot. (She didn't want to give them the AG pets the night before, for obvious Santa reasons!) Then we chatted with my mom and told her we'd be over soon. It was while I was on the phone that Bryce was laying in the hallway playing with the 3 Zhu Zhu Pets that Jason's Aunt Linda had given the kids the night before. He was having fun with them and then I noticed Piper was playing with them. Fast forward to later in the morning and Caroline's Zhu Zhu is gone. I still haven't found it and the mess is fairly cleaned up. I can only guess Piper picked it up and stashed it somewhere.
Anyway, we made it to my mom's by noon and had lunch and waited for my brother and his wife, Kelly, to arrive. (Lola and Chrissa were there so Piper was entertained with her canine cousin.) When K&K arrived, it was gift time! Kids went first, as usual, and they got some great stuff. The favorites were Bryce's "My First Shaving Kit " (a riot!) and a magic tricks kit. He even went up in secret with my brother later on and tried to master a few tricks. I really need to video a few of them for you as he tries so hard to pull them off. Really adorable! And then Piper received her Cleaning Trolley. Hysterical! She was so excited when she opened it and my mom started getting it out for her, she was kissing my mom's arms and back! She also refused to open any other gifts! This is a weird toy as it says "Just Like Home" but I don't know too many people who have a cleaning trolley at home. More like "Just Like Housekeeping." All 3 kids were instantly interested and in the time that we've been home, they have all been "cleaning" with it. Caroline got some more American Girl clothes and played happily by herself completely into her new doll!
Piper was her usual silly self and got my dad to throw her around a bit (she loves it!):
Oh and here is Caroline in the poofy skirt she was so excited to get:
We got each of the girls the skirt/legging set from Costco and they loved them! Piper's is purple, of course, and I hope she'll wear it later this week. They are so darn cute!
After a delicious dinner, we headed home to prepare for today. We decided the snow might not be so bad and headed west arriving by 11am. We had our annual gift exchange and gifts from MeeMaw - the kids continued to be on their best behavior and I was so proud of Caroline's developing graciousness and appreciation for gifts. Piper was thrilled to get her own doll stroller, Caroline some more AG clothes, and Bryce some clothes, musical instruments, and books. Of course Piper was happy to see baby Flora again but Flora was quickly trumped by Lola's arrival! But baby time reigned again and Piper got her share of Flora holding, kissing, and poking:
The most exciting part of the day though (for me) was my mom got an accordion! My uncle owns a music store in KY and gets really cool used instruments. Mom played the accordion when she was in 4th through 6th grade and picked that thing up like it had been just a few years, not decades since she played! We all enjoyed the oooom-pa pa tunes she played and had a laugh at how easy she made it seem! Bryce was VERY interested in it and watched my mother intently.
We decided to head back home by 4pm to make sure we beat any snow we might be getting and have some non-dark driving. I was sad to leave a little early, but I think we made the right choice. Kids got to bed on time and I had some time to sort through everything, although not really put things away. Thank goodness recycling day is tomorrow!! Cardboard out the wazhoo!
And with that, I will end this exhaustingly long post. Whew.
Christmas Eve at my IL's (Nana & Big Dad)
Kids were on great behavior which was a bit startling given how difficult the previous 24 hours had been, but I guess they were getting it out of their system. After a quick lunch, we opened gifts and of course, the kids went first! I love this photo - Sandy (Mrs. Claus) getting them started with gifts - they are listening so well!
The kids got so many wonderful things - Ravens long sleeved t-shirts or sweatshirts, books, games, Marvel Comics stuff (Bryce), baby doll crib (Piper), clothes! They ate a LOT of cookies and candy that day much to my chagrin but I did make sure they ate a decent lunch to start with. Then later in the afternoon, Sandy's extended family arrived and the kids enjoyed the extra company and excitement. Although I think all the grownups enjoyed them more. So full of spirit and fun! Christmas Eve is the best for that! Piper conked out on Tom's lap around 7pm and we left soon after to get home in time for Santa. So cute!
Anyway, when we finally got to bed that night, I think I was almost as excited as the kids. The past couple of years I have a hard time sleeping on Christmas Eve as I'm just so excited for the morning. I went to bed after midnight, got up with a crying Piper at 2:45 and then had a hard time going back to sleep. I think after that I only kind of dozed and then was up before 7am waiting for the kids to stir - which Caroline soon did. She woke Bryce without issue and then woke Piper who was NOT happy to be woken up! But she came around in time for the annual shot on the steps, but I had to hold her:
They randomly opened stockings first because they are right there on the steps (even though they know the good stuff is in the family room) and then made their way to Christmas land. Both Caroline and Piper opened their American Girl dolls first! I was so excited!
Piper finally got her "purple baby" (I had changed the outfit to the one she'd seen in the catalog) and named her "Purple Lola" as she names all her dolls "Lola" but this one must be special as she has a distinct name. Bryce was excited about all his gifts but I was the happiest when he opened the Monster Truck Ramp and he exclaimed, "This is JUST what I wanted!" Truth be told that was a last minute pick up for him and it wasn't exactly what I'd wanted to get him, so you can imagine how thrilled I was to get that reaction:
One of the things Piper got was the Olivia dress up set and she promptly put on one of the outfits but when I tried to take her photo, she wouldn't let me. So naturally, I chased her down.
Bryce was thoroughly happy with his bug sucker too! Poor kid has no bugs to suck up right now though, but that didn't stop him from playing with it! Caroline played pretty much all day with her American Girl doll and earlier that morning decided that the doll's name is Emily. So here, meet Emily:
I'm so proud of how well she's taking care of her already! (That was part of the deal with getting such a nice doll!) As the kids played, we called the grandparents to wish them Merry Christmas. My MIL, Sandy, got on the phone and told the kids that Santa had dropped off 3 gifts at our house overnight from her and they were in the closet. The kids were so excited and the girls got their American Girl pets and Bryce got a robot. (She didn't want to give them the AG pets the night before, for obvious Santa reasons!) Then we chatted with my mom and told her we'd be over soon. It was while I was on the phone that Bryce was laying in the hallway playing with the 3 Zhu Zhu Pets that Jason's Aunt Linda had given the kids the night before. He was having fun with them and then I noticed Piper was playing with them. Fast forward to later in the morning and Caroline's Zhu Zhu is gone. I still haven't found it and the mess is fairly cleaned up. I can only guess Piper picked it up and stashed it somewhere.
Piper was her usual silly self and got my dad to throw her around a bit (she loves it!):
Oh and here is Caroline in the poofy skirt she was so excited to get:
We got each of the girls the skirt/legging set from Costco and they loved them! Piper's is purple, of course, and I hope she'll wear it later this week. They are so darn cute!
After a delicious dinner, we headed home to prepare for today. We decided the snow might not be so bad and headed west arriving by 11am. We had our annual gift exchange and gifts from MeeMaw - the kids continued to be on their best behavior and I was so proud of Caroline's developing graciousness and appreciation for gifts. Piper was thrilled to get her own doll stroller, Caroline some more AG clothes, and Bryce some clothes, musical instruments, and books. Of course Piper was happy to see baby Flora again but Flora was quickly trumped by Lola's arrival! But baby time reigned again and Piper got her share of Flora holding, kissing, and poking:
We decided to head back home by 4pm to make sure we beat any snow we might be getting and have some non-dark driving. I was sad to leave a little early, but I think we made the right choice. Kids got to bed on time and I had some time to sort through everything, although not really put things away. Thank goodness recycling day is tomorrow!! Cardboard out the wazhoo!
And with that, I will end this exhaustingly long post. Whew.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
I Like Garlic?
Just my first video upload to my blog from my new digital video. Piper was singing and it sounded like "I like garlic" so we asked her if that was what she was saying and she said it was. Then you get a little bit of her talking to my aunt and then, of course, hugging Lola.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Merry Merry!
It was a wonderful Christmas. Kids were up around 7am and gift opening took all of 7 minutes. Well, at least the wrapping paper part. My sore fingers tell me how long the unpackaging and assembly took. Had a nice breakfast with Williams Sonoma croissants sent to us by the wonderful Jackie and Jim (Gigi and Popou). They were a little bit of heaven on Christmas morning with the Donut Shop coffee I'd just gotten. We messed around with gifts a little longer and then made it over to my mom and dad's by noon. Kids played around and we had lunch (I don't think kids like to eat on Christmas) and we waited for my brother and Kelly to get there. Chrissa and Lola were already there and Piper was overcome with JOY to spend the day with her friend Lola. (Oh and Piper named her Bitty Baby "Purple Lola.")
A wonderful Christmas gifting with my parents and then a delicious dinner. I feel so lucky to have parents and siblings that I enjoy spending my time with. The kids, once again, made up for their disasterous behavior on 12/23 by being soooo good for the 2nd day in a row. We bathed the kids at my mom's which always makes the transition home easier. I'd like to have stayed longer as I love a leisurely Christmas evening at my mom's but Piper after 2 days of no nap and not enough sleep was exhausted and fading fast. I'm always sad to leave on Christmas as I never want it to be over! Such a good day!
And now, well, now is the tricky part. We are supposed to head to Western MD tomorrow to spend the day at my grandmother's with my dad's extended family. But, they are calling for 6-10 inches of snow now with heaviest amounts in the afternoon/evening. I'm sure we'd get there without issue in the morning but the getting back part isn't so sure. They'll be getting less snow up there (less than 3 inches) but you have to drive over 2 mountains and that can be tricky. Plus, 10 inches (what they're calling for in our direct area), is difficult to drive through if your neighborhood isn't plowed, which it may not be. And who knows what shape the highways would be in. My mom/dad have 4 wheel drive and might be driving my brother, sister in law and sister up but that leaves us in our van. They might even spend the night, but the problem with that is my g-ma's house is already crowded with my dad's brother's family there. Where we'd sleep is a bit of a problem. Mom suggested getting a hotel but that sounds like more trouble than it's worth. I'd be sad to miss seeing everyone though. Although if we don't go, we'd be sure to go up later in the week to spend some time with my grandmother since she's the main reason I'd be going to begin with. I know how much she enjoys seeing the kids.
So the plan right now is to wait until we wake up in the morning and see how bad it is. If it's already getting bad, the decision is made. If it's still yet to come, we'll have a decision to make.
Christmas photos and talk about what the kiddos got is coming. There are quite a few funny stories from the day. Piper's favorite gift seemed to be the janitor set - um yeah - more on that later.
A wonderful Christmas gifting with my parents and then a delicious dinner. I feel so lucky to have parents and siblings that I enjoy spending my time with. The kids, once again, made up for their disasterous behavior on 12/23 by being soooo good for the 2nd day in a row. We bathed the kids at my mom's which always makes the transition home easier. I'd like to have stayed longer as I love a leisurely Christmas evening at my mom's but Piper after 2 days of no nap and not enough sleep was exhausted and fading fast. I'm always sad to leave on Christmas as I never want it to be over! Such a good day!
And now, well, now is the tricky part. We are supposed to head to Western MD tomorrow to spend the day at my grandmother's with my dad's extended family. But, they are calling for 6-10 inches of snow now with heaviest amounts in the afternoon/evening. I'm sure we'd get there without issue in the morning but the getting back part isn't so sure. They'll be getting less snow up there (less than 3 inches) but you have to drive over 2 mountains and that can be tricky. Plus, 10 inches (what they're calling for in our direct area), is difficult to drive through if your neighborhood isn't plowed, which it may not be. And who knows what shape the highways would be in. My mom/dad have 4 wheel drive and might be driving my brother, sister in law and sister up but that leaves us in our van. They might even spend the night, but the problem with that is my g-ma's house is already crowded with my dad's brother's family there. Where we'd sleep is a bit of a problem. Mom suggested getting a hotel but that sounds like more trouble than it's worth. I'd be sad to miss seeing everyone though. Although if we don't go, we'd be sure to go up later in the week to spend some time with my grandmother since she's the main reason I'd be going to begin with. I know how much she enjoys seeing the kids.
So the plan right now is to wait until we wake up in the morning and see how bad it is. If it's already getting bad, the decision is made. If it's still yet to come, we'll have a decision to make.
Christmas photos and talk about what the kiddos got is coming. There are quite a few funny stories from the day. Piper's favorite gift seemed to be the janitor set - um yeah - more on that later.
Friday, December 24, 2010
Ho Ho Ho....Woosh!
That's Christmas coming! It's here! Cookies and milk are "gone." Gifts are out and ready to be ripped into! Kids are nestled all snug in their beds.....and I'm about to head upstairs for my long winter's nap. No kerchief though. Sorry to disappoint.
Hard to believe I've been off 3 days already!! It's been a busy couple. Wednesday, after dropping the big kids off at school, I ran errands with Piper, picked up Bryce, met with the Infants/Toddler coordinator, picked up Caroline and then took he 3 kids to Dollar Tree for them to do their shopping for the family. BAD idea! I mean, they were mostly good, but that is a crazy place to take 3 little kids. Especially Piper. She kept picking up things and laughing hysterically like her siblings were doing - of course the stuff they picked up was actually funny. The stuff she picked up wasn't so funny but her laughing made you think it was - and you'd usually laugh along too. It was hard to keep them focused! She didn't want to ride in the little cart either. I finally made her and we made it out of there spending just under 20 bucks with a few bags full of fun stuff.
Then yesterday, ran the big kids to school, worked online for 90 minutes (yes, I'm doing a little work from home to keep up with applications because it's crazy application season and it makes my return on 1/3 so much nicer). Jason picked up Bryce and then after Piper went down for her nap, I went to Caroline's school for the magic show. Once we got home was when I found out she had a slight fever. But a dose of ibuprofen later she was fine, yet with this nagging cough that's neither dry nor wet. Hmmm. The fever has never come back but the cough continues. I'm thinking maybe the fever was a result of dehydration as Caroline is apt to be since the kid NEVER drinks. This is weird for a wateraholic like me. She was fine today without any cough meds but I gave her decongestant this evening before bed and I haven't heard a single cough out of her so at least she seems to be sleeping well.
We also had a terrible time getting the kids to pick up the playroom in preparation for Christmas Eve. Disaster really. Crazy, whacked out kids? Check. Raging parents? Check. Oy. Probably one of the worst evenings we've had with the 3 of them on record. It continued this morning with Bryce refusing to get dressed to go to my IL's. He almost rode up in his underpants but came around on his own and redeemed himself nicely. In fact, all 3 kids were just perfect at my IL's today. I don't have the energy to post any photos, but suffice it to say it was a very good day. Wonderful gifts and happy family. A nice day spent!
Jason and I exchanged gifts tonight (as we always do) and in addition to a portrait lens and remote control for my camera, I got a Kodak digital video camera. Do you call it a camera when it's the size of a phone??? Anyway, it's really cool like all digital video cameras are but, get this, it's freaking waterproof!! That's right, you'll be seeing some videos of my kids underwater coming summer 2011! Woohoo! Jason has such good tech buying skillz! So one of us will be taking still shots tomorrow and the other will be doing some videoing. Yay!
After that, it's off to my mom and dad's for some more jolly good Christmasing where I believe there just might be a few gifts. And maybe, just maybe, we'll talk a little bit about the potential for snow on Sunday. I mean it IS my dad after all - the man should be an honorary weather guy. He likes to keep the Weather Channel on PIP during any possible east coast hurricane or snow storm. I love that guy! But really though, I'm concerned about the potential storm for 2 reasons - our beloved Lydia is supposed to fly in on Sunday and we're supposed to go to my grandmother's in Western MD. So, we shall see as it seems even the Foot's Forecast guys aren't completely sure what's going to happen.
So white Christmas or not, we shall see. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!
Hard to believe I've been off 3 days already!! It's been a busy couple. Wednesday, after dropping the big kids off at school, I ran errands with Piper, picked up Bryce, met with the Infants/Toddler coordinator, picked up Caroline and then took he 3 kids to Dollar Tree for them to do their shopping for the family. BAD idea! I mean, they were mostly good, but that is a crazy place to take 3 little kids. Especially Piper. She kept picking up things and laughing hysterically like her siblings were doing - of course the stuff they picked up was actually funny. The stuff she picked up wasn't so funny but her laughing made you think it was - and you'd usually laugh along too. It was hard to keep them focused! She didn't want to ride in the little cart either. I finally made her and we made it out of there spending just under 20 bucks with a few bags full of fun stuff.
Then yesterday, ran the big kids to school, worked online for 90 minutes (yes, I'm doing a little work from home to keep up with applications because it's crazy application season and it makes my return on 1/3 so much nicer). Jason picked up Bryce and then after Piper went down for her nap, I went to Caroline's school for the magic show. Once we got home was when I found out she had a slight fever. But a dose of ibuprofen later she was fine, yet with this nagging cough that's neither dry nor wet. Hmmm. The fever has never come back but the cough continues. I'm thinking maybe the fever was a result of dehydration as Caroline is apt to be since the kid NEVER drinks. This is weird for a wateraholic like me. She was fine today without any cough meds but I gave her decongestant this evening before bed and I haven't heard a single cough out of her so at least she seems to be sleeping well.
We also had a terrible time getting the kids to pick up the playroom in preparation for Christmas Eve. Disaster really. Crazy, whacked out kids? Check. Raging parents? Check. Oy. Probably one of the worst evenings we've had with the 3 of them on record. It continued this morning with Bryce refusing to get dressed to go to my IL's. He almost rode up in his underpants but came around on his own and redeemed himself nicely. In fact, all 3 kids were just perfect at my IL's today. I don't have the energy to post any photos, but suffice it to say it was a very good day. Wonderful gifts and happy family. A nice day spent!
Jason and I exchanged gifts tonight (as we always do) and in addition to a portrait lens and remote control for my camera, I got a Kodak digital video camera. Do you call it a camera when it's the size of a phone??? Anyway, it's really cool like all digital video cameras are but, get this, it's freaking waterproof!! That's right, you'll be seeing some videos of my kids underwater coming summer 2011! Woohoo! Jason has such good tech buying skillz! So one of us will be taking still shots tomorrow and the other will be doing some videoing. Yay!
After that, it's off to my mom and dad's for some more jolly good Christmasing where I believe there just might be a few gifts. And maybe, just maybe, we'll talk a little bit about the potential for snow on Sunday. I mean it IS my dad after all - the man should be an honorary weather guy. He likes to keep the Weather Channel on PIP during any possible east coast hurricane or snow storm. I love that guy! But really though, I'm concerned about the potential storm for 2 reasons - our beloved Lydia is supposed to fly in on Sunday and we're supposed to go to my grandmother's in Western MD. So, we shall see as it seems even the Foot's Forecast guys aren't completely sure what's going to happen.
So white Christmas or not, we shall see. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Wrapping Frenzy
Last night, after getting the kids to bed, Jason and I headed downstairs to get started on wrapping/gift packaging. He's already wrapped all of mine, so I guess he's one step ahead. I told him kindly last night that he can expect that all of his gifts will come packaged in lovely gift bags since we have LOTS of them and I just won't have it in me to wrap anymore, especially since I know I'll really be DONE once we do the kids'.
Up first last night were family/teacher/friend gifts! We told the kids we were going to do it as we were putting them to bed to test them out. We were down in the basement that has one of those handle locks on it, but both of the big kids know how to open the door with one of those on it so it's not much of a deterrent. Mainly, we wanted to see if curious children would try to come down and snoop - and they did. At least Caroline tried. We purposely were NOT wrapping their gifts for that reason. Which makes me wonder how late we're going to have to start tonight on theirs if we want to wait until they are truly asleep. Of course, we won't publicize our plans this time.
Little whippersnappers. We've actually discussed putting a lock on the basement door with Christmas being one of the reasons.
I'm looking forward to wrapping their gifts though. I love seeing all their gifts together and getting an idea of what it will look like when we put them under the tree on Friday night. And I can't wait until Saturday morning to see their little faces. I think all 3 of them will have a great Christmas but I'm most looking forward to Piper's reaction this year. She's getting a "purple" Bitty Baby (a Bitty Baby dressed in this outfit!) and the Olivia house. She's been great for reactions lately too so I am very excited about how she'll act.
Up first last night were family/teacher/friend gifts! We told the kids we were going to do it as we were putting them to bed to test them out. We were down in the basement that has one of those handle locks on it, but both of the big kids know how to open the door with one of those on it so it's not much of a deterrent. Mainly, we wanted to see if curious children would try to come down and snoop - and they did. At least Caroline tried. We purposely were NOT wrapping their gifts for that reason. Which makes me wonder how late we're going to have to start tonight on theirs if we want to wait until they are truly asleep. Of course, we won't publicize our plans this time.
Little whippersnappers. We've actually discussed putting a lock on the basement door with Christmas being one of the reasons.
I'm looking forward to wrapping their gifts though. I love seeing all their gifts together and getting an idea of what it will look like when we put them under the tree on Friday night. And I can't wait until Saturday morning to see their little faces. I think all 3 of them will have a great Christmas but I'm most looking forward to Piper's reaction this year. She's getting a "purple" Bitty Baby (a Bitty Baby dressed in this outfit!) and the Olivia house. She's been great for reactions lately too so I am very excited about how she'll act.
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