Who doesn't love it...

Do you remember singing into your hairbrush when you were 10.

Apparently, the lampstand is the new "hairbrush."
break out the microphone...the stand is to confining. Tonight, Ellie invited me into her room to watch a performance. She would sing 6 Taylor Swift songs and I would pay her 1.00 admission. She had practiced every song and memorized the words. She sang with her heart out. And, even came up with a signature "twang" to her voice. She was thrilled to perform, (after the first few moments of silliness) and put on quite a show. She didn't even mind me grabbing my camera, make that... her camera. Mine was out of batteries (hate it when that happens.) Who doesn't love moments like this.

New Year, new blog

Let your light shine this year.

Have a bright year.

Holiday highlights

We love December in all it's crazy glory. I was determined to not let this month get by without a wrap up blog post. Bear with me...it's better late than never.

Let the month of celebrations and activities begin...

Kindergarten is such a joy. The middle of the month was "gingerbread time." I joined Avery and the entire kindergarten in making a gingerbread home. Tempting to not eat the candy but Avery held out and built a beautiful home.

Avery was invited to ring the bell for salvation army in the middle of December.

With no sunshine overhead and icy cold temperatures, Avery set out to ring the bell with the finest intent. She and her friend, Alexis were very shy but serious in their bell ringing. I don't actually know how much money they raised (they stood out for 20 min) but, I am quite there has been anyone cuter collecting money.

Brrr......this winter has been dreadfully cold and icy. We have been bombarded with 3 feet of snow and even higher drifts. School has already been canceled 6 days. Yes, 6 total days SO FAR. I can't imagine playing in the snow these days, but if Jeff is out shoveling the kids will still want to go. Here is Zach after some time shoveling the brutal icy snow. Can you notice the ice on the trees. You might think, oh how pretty, I say YUCK
My birthday lunch was fabulous. Friends gathered to celebrate and chat with one another. Everyone was so kind and I was treated to many wonderful birthday gifts. Thank you ladies.

Christmas morning

Christmas morning brings lots of smiles and bright happy faces. Lucky for us we didn't start opening until 7:00 and enjoyed every minute...well, every hour of the "opening" Avery will stop and play with each new item. Ellie is loud and happy. Zachary just can't wait till the next gift. That's the way it goes. Santa surprised the kids this year. I have to say they were really good and Santa must of noticed. We were happy to have grandma and grandpa at our home and excited to have gigi and papa join us on News Years Eve. Thanks to our parents for making our holiday so special.