Santa Photos 2009

Poor Santa... I think two kids are getting coal this Christmas!

The kids would not sit still for photos. We actually took these pics on a hot day in the fall--we like to get our cards done early every year--saves precious time come busy December!

Lorelei's smiling, but Santa's not! Bpop's such a sport!

Tied up in ribbon, Santa's ho-ho-hostage.

Our friends are forced to send us Christmas cards to save Santa.

They may be naughty, but they're darn cute too!

Thanksgiving

We spent Thanksgiving Day at Aunt Tenley's house, and brought along our friend, Mr. Inflatable Turkey. Our family enjoyed time together with great food, old family videos, and a slideshow we made for Great Grammy's birthday. I'm thankful for my family.

Star Skater

Lorelei's first time on the ice made the KC Star Newspaper.

Our ice princess.

Christmas Tea Party & Cookie Exchange

The girls in Lorelei's preschool class came over today for a Christmas cookie exchange and tea party. It was such a surprise when Santa peeked into the window, burst through the door with a ho-ho-ho, and bestowed a bundle of gifts. The girls went wild!

Santa's reading the Jolly Christmas Postman.
Lorelei, hosting her friends with cheers.

O Christmas Tree

We had our tree-raising tonight!

Our made-over fireplace is roaring!

The family room.

Our favorite ornaments are the ones the kids make--look close, and you'll spot a candy cane and glittery star from preschool.

Gryffin grabs at the branches, raffia, and balls--maybe putting up the tree early wasn't such a good idea!
Lorelei sparkles more than the tree.
Is that a twinkle in her eye?

Sorting through family ornaments.

Playing in the mud

Today was beautiful. While Daddy cut down branches in the yard, the kids had fun playing in the leaf pile Mommy had raked together, and then went straight for the mud. They were covered head to toe, and loving it!