Smarter than.....

AJ asked me this morning "Mom, what is 13 + 13?"
I quickly replied "26."
With a look of astonishment on his face he told me
"Mom, you are smarter than a FROG!"
Wow! A frog! Smarter than a frog?!
I guess I'll take it as a compliment :)

Excitement & Anticipation

As Christmas Day gets closer and closer,
the boys are increasingly excited.
Here are a few things we have been doing this Christmas season.

Each year the boys put together a gingerbread house. AJ especially loves this activity. This year they got to share the experience with Mama Fern and Papa Ron while we were at a holiday party. I had to find an out of the way place to stash the completed gingerbread house so that it wouldn't be demolished by little fingers wanting one more taste of the icing & candy.AJ has enjoyed his 'Countdown to Christmas'
paper chain he made in school.
I took this photo yesterday when we were down to 4 more days.This Advent Calendar is my favorite countdown.
Each day we open the numbered door and put a new
magnetic piece on the nativity scene.
All that is left is Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus. It's almost Christmas!
Only a few more packages to wrap,
cleaning to be done, pies to make,
pictures to take,
and cookies to bake!

School's Out

On the first official day of Christmas Break, AJ said "I wish I had school every day!"

He would be staying home today even if school were in session. AJ has his 3rd ear infection since October. What a way to begin Christmas Break!

Not Your Typical Choo Choo

Last year we took the boys to the Christmas Train and began a new tradition for our family. Riding the train is an experience you will not easily forget. Along the tracks, you see and hear the Creation Story and the narrative of Jesus' birth, death and resurrection. It is very well done.

We were excited to return to the Christmas Train this year.

Waiting to board the train with tickets in hand.

The night wouldn't be complete without a visit to the man in the red suit. Santa Claus that is! AJ sat on his lap and told him the top three things on his wish list. JJ wasn't interested in getting too close to Santa. It was chilly, but we had a great time!

AJ liked the train ride and the story of Jesus best.

JJ liked the candy stick and hot chocolate.

We can't wait to go again next year!

Programs & Parties

JJ's preschool put on a Christmas program last week. I was hopeful that JJ would have a better experience than the Thanksgiving program and actually sing & clap at the appropriate time.

Well, there was no singing or clapping for JJ in the Christmas program this year. At least I can say that while he did sit on the steps in protest of the performance, he did not make a scene. I wonder if he will be more willing to participate in these kinds of events next year. For now, we have these photos of our strong willed, only does things when he decides he wants to do them, JJ.
Finally off stage, we see a smile. Never mind that he was supposed to be facing forward and quietly watching the rest of the program.

AJ's kindergarten class had a fun "Winter" party with reindeer ears for everyone, ice cream sundaes and holiday cookie decorating. They had a blast!

Words from JJ

Tonight JJ said "The angels said 'Do not be afraid'."

My heart smiles - he does listen!

Christmas Decorations

I love decorating for Christmas and thought I would

show you my favorites.

This Willow Tree nativity tops the list.

My MIL made this garland for me a few years ago.

It has lights that cast a beautiful glow on our "great room" at night.

This ornament is my favorite new addition to the tree this year.

JJ made it at preschool. It is a "peanut" baby Jesus

in a popsicle stick manger.

Isn't it precious!