It's Santa!!!

We took a chance and went to visit the big guy today. We were expecting a total meltdown but were happily surprised when both of the kiddos did great! Sammie was a little nervous and almost cried when he first walked out. But she gathered herself and even told Santa what she wants for Christmas...a bike and a helmet! It was a success and a great memory! I'm sure this is ALL we will hear about for the next couple days.

Christmas Cookies

It's that time...cookie season is upon us and this year I had a helper...sort of!
Sammie was really excited to use the cookie cutters. She even got her hands dirty!!! I know-I know...but it's true:) She tasted the flour-that was not her favorite...but then she found the powdered sugar bowl and that was a big hit! Surprise surprise. Good memories:)

Smore Smores...

Peter built us a great fire pit in the backyard. We call it our "recession fire pit". We've been wanting a nice copper fire pit but don't have/want to spend the moolah so we used what we have and it turned out great!
So we bundled up the kiddies and had a bonfire. We even made smores. Samantha liked them...minus the marshmellows but whatever..we actually got her to sit by the fire. (This is a step in the right direction-eh Susan?!) She did help me blow out my marshmeloows...yes, I like mine chared.
Cole wasn't sure what to think about all of this. It dawned on me that he really isn't outside a whole lot...that needs to change!


Getting bundled.


Daddy and the kids.


Mmm...smores!


Look at that fire.


Singing and clapping.

Operation Birthday

Well, operation sneaky birthday gift was a hit...and no you're not confused. Peter's birthday is Thursday but he got his manly man grill Saturday for logistical reasons:)
He loves it...except that there is "some assembly required" and he's outside right now yelling at it. But from what I know about men (which isn't that much really)-they always yell when putting things together...at least my husband does:) That's why I stay INside:)
Thanks to all who pitched in to give Peter this awesome gift. We'll be having a new year's bbq to break it in.

Tickle Me Cole

Cole now laughs...and it is infectious.