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!