Christmas

We were once again blessed with Christmas magic this year. Despite all of the rain throughout December, we woke up to a winter wonderland on Christmas. 

After a long day of waiting, it was finally time to get dressed for church.

 Kate was the angel in charge of the star of Bethlehem, and she did an amazing job guiding the way for the Three Wise Men. 

After a two hour church service, this one was more than ready to head back to Grandma & Papa's for some presents. Not sure why the shirt came off, that's just how he rolls. 

Reading a book to cousin Evan on his first Christmas Eve.  

 Our very favorite meal of the year.

Cavanaghs: 1 

Nine pounds of crab legs: 0

On Christmas morning the kids opened gifts from Santa, and we spent time relaxing, playing with the new toys and eating cinnamon rolls. We then loaded up the car and headed to Sioux City. We opened gifts and got to spend the weekend with all the Vogels

Such as great holiday. We are so blessed with gifts that can't be wrapped in paper. 

Lately

This Christmas season we made a point to slow down, unplug, and enjoy quiet time at home. The month still flew by, but it was relaxing and cozy. 

Max the Elf was back. He did some fun things like bring "elf cookies" to make. Kate drew him a thank you note that says "mom says thanks a lot"...which captured my sarcasm perfectly. ;)

 Andrew had a playdate with Zoey. They played chess.

 And minutes after she left he fell asleep by the fire. 

 Kate had a Spanish play and we were in charge of creating a "desert" costume. 

 The weather was amazingly warm, and I got to enjoy a few hikes on my favorite trail in the woods. 

 Making reindeer cookies (also brought by Max...thinking next year we should encourage him to bring more vegetables & fruit instead!)

 Waiting for our neighbors to pick us up to go to an indoor swimming pool. Outside. In December.

 A special after school date with my favorite boy. 

 Kate's Spanish play. She rocked it as "la tortuga"

 And more chess!

It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas...

Lately

I cannot believe how quickly November flew by. We had such a fun month!

A beautiful view for an evening run that I snuck in around the lake. 

 Our annual show at the Playhouse. This year was a perfect selection for Kate, who LOVES Junie B. Jones. As for the rest of us...well, let's just say it's not going to win any Tonys. 

 Out exploring a local park. 

 We tried our hand at geocaching. And failed. We'll be back at it in the spring! 

 Andrew after a haircut, in which all of his beautiful curls were cut off. There were tears (that would be me), but I'm happy to report they are already growing back!

 Lots of games of chess.

 Proof that they really do love each other. 

 Andrew has started making breakfast for everyone. This morning he decided to pour all the milk first so that he didn't spill it. 

 A cold and snowy Living History Farms race.

 My first ISU basketball game of the season...so glad to be back!

 And a visit from one of my favorites all the way from Texas. 

 For Thanksgiving, Kate got on Pinterest, found two treats to bring, made a list and put it all together. 

  Continuing the Cavanagh tradition of heavenly hash. 

I hope everyone had a blessed month!