Thursday, December 31, 2015

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. 

Monday, December 28, 2015

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!