Christmas at last!

Wasn't sure we were going to make it...Abby's patience ran out several days ago! Lots of fun, presents and special moments with family.

The stage was set for Santa on Christmas Eve. The homemade card, the cookies, milk and carrots for the reindeer. Abby also decided that Santa might need a reminder of what each of us wanted for Christmas. So she papered the coffee table with special picture memory aids. Elmo got into the spirit with a stocking cap and his friend Rudolph the sheep.

Abby was up early and ready for presents. Kate wasn't so sure - she took a moment to collect herself in the entry way before beginning the Christmas frenzy.

These are Abby's hat and gloves,
but Kate took ownership right away

I'm not sure what Santa was thinking with
an entire set of instruments.
Kate is a future drummer, while Abby liked the trumpet.







A card for Santa

Let the preparations begin! Tomorrow night Santa arrives in the Nelson household and around the world. We've discussed the cookies, the milk and the carrots for the reindeer. But this year Abby decided he must have a beautiful hand-made card as well. Attempting to butter him up, I think...

Finally a fish!

Abby is really turning into a little fish. It took her awhile to get confident in the water, but she is really learning now! There's still hope for Mommy to have another swimmer in the family.

Gathering with good friends...

It was so fun to see our friends Evan, Nathan and Elsa last night! We had some yummy dinner, wild imaginative play while the grown-ups tried to catch up and finally a story time by the Christmas tree. Hope to see you again soon, friends! We missed those who weren't able to make it, and others who are far away. Lots of holiday love to you!

Holiday Hoopla!

Christmas tree hunting at the tree farm. Our one family photo of the year. We really need to work on getting more of these!













Rudolph the Red Nosed Abby. Note the homemade nose and hooves (with the help of some scotch tape).

An early family Christmas - thanks Nina,Uncle Justin, Aunt Steph and Madeleine! Wish I'd caught some pictures of the gymnastics extravaganza that followed...Madeleine doing her lovely routine, Abby doing somersaults, and Kate rolling around on the floor.

Our little mischievous elf.

Winter fun

A family outing with ice skating followed by a trip to Snowflake Lane. Meeting Frosty was a highlight! Abby's "best day EVER," until sheer exhaustion set in and the meltdowns commenced. Poor Kate had a chilly belly, but she loved all the excitement!

Kate's style

Unique? You could say that! Here's Kate showing off her belly and the fabulous sunglasses borrowed from her big sister. One thing you can't see are the princess shoes that add a lovely finishing touch (especially in PJ's).

She is also getting into the holiday spirit, adding antlers to the PJ outfits.:)