Holiday Fun

We've been busy as we countdown to Christmas. Everyday we have a fun activity to help us get excited about the holiday season. Some days are more fun than others. Here are a few fun days we've had with each other:

Playing Candy Land

Emma's reaction to winning every single game of Candy Land

Spotting the Elves at Gardner Village

Other activities include reading christmas stories with hot chocolate, watching Christmas specials and making treats for others. It's been fun involving the kids and watching them get excited to uncover the day's fun.

Gingerbread House

Every year we decorate a gingerbread house. In year's past we've purchased houses that you have to assemble yourself - not a good idea so now we get preassembled houses. Yes, I cheat but it makes for happier children as they place candies all over.

The finished project

Happy kids

Our decorating team

Reflections

For the 2012 Reflections theme "Diversity Mean..." Stephen took this picture not far from our home to represent "Diversity in Colors". His photo was selected from the school level to move on to district level. Although he didn't win at district and move on to regional, we are very proud of this beautiful picture. Well done, Stephen!

Winter is here...

This is what welcomed us this morning

The cutest snow shovelers in the world (or at least OUR world)

Stephen's getting really good at clearing our driveway

It looks like it's time to put the shorts & flip-flops away and bring out the boots & coats.

A Warrior & A Princess

Here is how our Halloween went this year:

One Red Power Ranger

One Sleeping Beauty

4 bags of candy (gone in 45 minutes)

4 Halloween parties

Many happy smiles

Defending home and hearth

Emma was thrilled to be wearing some of mommy's make-up

Grandma Linda & Grandpa Cal at the school parade

Walking in the school Halloween Parade

Autumn Activities

This fall has been filled with some fun activities for Stephen. He played community recreational soccer. The skill was there but the teams they played were way more intune with each other that all but one game Stephen's team lost. It was disappointing for him but those are the life lessons that make us stronger and more determined. He still had fun running around the field in his new soccer cleats. Also on the agenda was the scouts Regatta. Dad & Stephen built the boat (without some key steering components) while Mom decorated it. The race didn't go as well as anticipated but at the end of the night you still got the treat. At this Pack Meeting Stephen was awarded several pins from Weblos camp and other den meetings. Nice job!

Greg's New Hobby

Since the summer Greg has been searching all over for a road bike and now has finally jumped on the wagon...or at least his new bike. He outfitted himself and looks like a pro while riding down the street. He and Stephen have taken a few rides together. Let's Ride!