Polar Express

Tonight was filled with excitement and holiday cheer. We all met at the Smiths for a quick supper and Brodie exchanged gifts with his cousins. After a few quick pics and a little play time we all made our way to the train station. The children boarded the Polar Express with rosy cheeks and Christmas jammies. Finally, after a story and a few rounds of jingle bells, Santa arrived on our train car. Brodie had no problem telling the elves and even Mrs. Claus what he wished for, but when St. Nick asked.....nothing. Oh well, I'm sure the circled toys in the Toys R Us ad will be very helpful:)

Baking with Bea

We started the afternoon by meeting Brodie's Bea and his cousins for lunch. After more playing than eating, we finally went to my in laws home. The kids were busy little elves baking and decorating Christmas goodies and painting wooden ornaments. This was an afternoon planned by my mother in law to create special Christmas memories with her grandchildren. And any time these 3 get together it is sure to be quite an event!!!

Christmas Card

We thought we would venture out to Botanical Gardens and attempt our Christmas card photo. It seemed like an easy task, but then I forgot my child doesn't like to look and smile at the camera at the same time. After taking over 80 snaps (thank goodness for digital cameras) and getting a few possibles, we let Brodie have some fun.

Beginning our Christmas

We began our Christmas holidays with a visit from Brodie's Gran.
It had been a while since Gran's last visit and Brodie enjoyed showing off and introducing his new toys. We also enjoyed a little holiday shopping. Brodie had his second dentist visit and actually let them clean his teeth this time. Good news - no cavities. Bad news - braces. His little teeth are perfect for now, but will need help to make room for the big teeth. Ugh!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

This year Emma and Brodie caught a glimpse of the turkey before it was cooked. Needless to say they had to investigate...with a flash light! Of course after their examination they both decided they were not eating that turkey. The two stuck with their decision while the turkey was cooking, but my how things change when the noses start sniffing. Brodie was the first to cave:)

Princess & Pirate Party

No, we aren't running away to become Disney World castmembers. We were invited to a 6 year olds birthday party, and to accommodate her girl and boy guests she had a princess & pirate party. The beginning of the party was just for the princesses and they were "crowned" by Snow White(me!) and Cinderella. Then the pirates arrived in time for play, cake, and presents. It was a great party theme for all and lots of fun.

Trick or Treat

This year for Halloween Brodie dressed up as Buzz Lightyear. It was a tough decision between Buzz and Woody, but the flashing wings on the Buzz costume were pretty convincing. As you notice in the picture, a little princess joins him. "Butterball" was a rescued stray that quickly found her way to Brodie's heart. Unfortunately, after owning her for four days Roger and I realized we are not pet people. We happily placed the nine year old, mini poodle with a new owner. Brodie's heart mended quickly, and of course a trip to Toys R Us always helps.