Cookie Time

The kids wanted to make cookies for Santa. Well, technically *I* wanted them to make cookies for Santa. Ava wanted to make cookies for Ava, and Ethan just wanted to smash and grab the dough. It was a new and strange feeling to have the kids baking with me. Normally I prefer to do my baking solo, but I rather enjoyed the company. We might have to do this more often.

The kids even got to pick out which cookies they wanted to leave out for Santa right before they went to bed Christmas Eve. Ava is counting them. Did I mention she can count up to ten flawlessly and sometimes even up to twenty? We count EVERYTHING these days. Also, that sort of wonky shaped cookie in the back with the green sprinkles is the one Ethan made. The rest on Santa Claus' plate were made by Ava.

Santa Claus

Our first attempt to meet Santa Claus at U.S. Toys failed. I got an email saying there was a sale and pictures with Santa. We showed up and NO ONE knew anything about it, till finally someone mumbled something about not being able to find a Santa. Seemed a bit odd, but what are you going to do? So we bought a toy for the kids and we went home. Luckily Ava still didn't really grasp the concept. I went home and looked up other places where Santa would be that weekend. Then today, after church, we stopped by REI and the kids got to meet with the big guy and get their picture taken. Ava seemed a bit unsure about him until he gave her a Candy Cane, and then it was "Santa Clause, love Santa Clause" the rest of the day. Ethan pretty much just screamed at home the whole time. This was the best shot :

Happy Thanksgiving!

I hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving! We spent the holiday with all of my family at the house my brother and his girlfriend just bought in Wylie. They were excellent hosts, and we all had a great time hanging out, playing games, and eating delicious food. The boys grilled up some amazing bacon wrapped turkey breasts that need to become a new Thanksgiving staple, Mom got out the (I hope) soon to be traditional turkey hat, and we all loaded up on too many desserts! It was so great seeing everyone and the weather was beautiful. We really couldn't have asked for a better Thanksgiving.