I couldn't be prouder......

When I heard Brooklynn's preschool was having a Christmas party and a little concert, I was ecstatic.  The calendar was marked, and we were counting down the days.  Her teacher, Mrs. Baker, would tell us how exuberant Brooklynn was singing, which made the wait even tougher.  Since Brooklynn has such a creative talent, Mrs. Baker, asked me to make the "special Christmas treat" for the class (assuming Brooklynn got her creativeness from me, haha).  The pressure was on!

The night before we made Christmas trees and wreaths from Rice Krispie treats, and the girls even made them.  Mrs. Baker was impressed.  Whew!  Dodged that bullet!

Brooklynn woke up ready to sing her little heart out!  As we sat there ready for her to make her grand entrance, I couldn't help but feel my eyes tear up.  I don't know if it was the realization she was growing up or just being so dang proud of her!  She did a fantastic job, but we didn't get to see our animated singer.  I think the nerves got to her, not to mention the boy in front of her throwing a tantrum during the performance.   All I could think was, "So glad that's not my kid!"

Love that smile! 

 She really didn't seem that sad.....

 All the kids

Even though the performance was short, it beat out any concert I've ever been to (yes, even the 'N Sync concert).  I loved every bit of it and found myself constantly snapping pics while Steve ran the video camera.  I have become one of those parents - one that thinks my kid is the cutest, the smartest,  just the best and I have to get proof of it every time!  But I'm ok with that, because I know I'm just so proud!

Let the Holiday Season Begin!

Although I was urging Steve that we should put out the decorations before Thanksgiving this year (it's a lot of work, and I want to enjoy it longer) he stuck to his guns.  So I made sure we were up and at 'em the day after Thanksgiving.  Every year it gets more exciting for the girls and they can help try to help even more.  They loved seeing the ornaments and putting them on themselves.

 Almost done.......

Last week I took the girls to Bass Pro Shops for the annual Santa visit.  Brooklynn had no reservations (2 years in a row now...) but Chandler wasn't digging the old man.  Unfortunately I waited a little too long to take my picture, because she did have a couple minutes standing next to him and requesting her present - a hot dog!  Brooklynn said she wanted a doll.  I love that the commercialism hasn't ruined the Christmas spirit for them......yet!

 They even have a carousel this year!

Saturday it was off to have breakfast with Santa and Grandma and Papa at the senior center.  The girls had a great time, and it seemed the visit with Santa went a little smoother this time.

As if breakfast with Santa wasn't enough for one day's excitement, we packed the house (mostly with kiddos) for our annual kids' gift exchange/girls' lunch.  Since the kids rule here, we're thinking maybe next year we'll leave them home with the dads and have a girls' spa day. 

The kids were great and enjoyed hanging out with their besties!  Here's a pic of some of the kids (we're still missing quite a few).

 Opening their books

That's what we've got for now, but there will be lots more fun coming up in the following weeks!

We will miss you Uncle Ron

For you avid followers (haha) I know it's been a long time.  I was just putting off this post until it was a little easier to write.  A few weeks ago we had to say goodbye to Steve's uncle, Ron.  Ron had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer over 4 years ago, and after a long and tough battle, the cancer won.  Although we have many great memories with Ron, I will always remember his bond with his grandson, Tyler and watching those two play together.  I remember this summer, sitting in Steve's parents' backyard, and Ron asking Tyler to sing his songs.  So I was expecting him to belt out some "Wheels on the Bus", or something of that nature, but Tyler starts jamming to all Ron's favorite 50s songs.  It was the cutest thing, and the pride on Ron's face said it all!

We had some great visits with Ron and our girls the last couple weeks of his life.  Ron enjoyed watching the girls invade the house and break out all the toys.  He'd even get down on the ground and play with them.

I felt like Ron was a "kid at heart" and I admired that about him.  Sometimes, as adults, we are scared of looking silly or "unrefined", but that never mattered to him.  He truly was a special person!