Christmas in Missouri

We ended our Christmas vacation in Missouri to visit Justin's family. These two were waiting for "Santa & his elf" to hand out presents...aka Nate & Aleah. Nate said he was acting just like Santa when he sat in a chair and made the kids come to him to get their presents. Funny.

 We open gifts from youngest to oldest taking turns and only opening one at a time so everyone can see what everyone gets. I think it was Elias' turn.

 Kids had fun with this monkey.  He repeats whatever you say to it.

 I was amazed to see how big Aleah and Nate have gotten.

 Elias looking at his truck book that makes sounds.

 I liked Gramp's smile.

 Nana got some cool vases.  They will be remodeling their house soon. What a great gift!

 They look so tough.

 You gotta laugh at this one.  Justin went to the bathroom while we were visiting his grandma's house and this is what he found.   

 Is that a bone coming out of his head?

 Really glad you were able to make it Greg!

 Ahhh....Christmas.

This chair has had lots of little bodies sitting in it over the years...

 Nana helped Elias play basketball and he LOVED it.

 Playing with her face.

 Aleah taught Olivia how to make those rubber band bracelets on your toes instead of using the loom.

 We extended our trip one more day because of a yucky sickness that went around.  Karsen and Olivia created this score card for puking.  Not only did Aleah get transferred, but also Aunt Katie, mom, and Olivia ended up on the puke side after the picture was taken. During our 11hr car ride home, Olivia puked for the last 4hrs of the trip.  What a memory!

It was great to see everybody.  Missed getting pics of get-togethers with Gramp's side and Nana's side of the family. But it was fun to see all of them too!  

Christmas Dollywood & Random Summer

We made it to Dollywood before leaving for Christmas vacation to see all the lights.  Fun evening with the Strings.

 Pig ride...and many others.

 This was us on the elephants...which is amazing because on the entire drive to Dollywood, Olivia was sick with a migraine and puked 2x. I am so thankful God answered prayer so Olivia could enjoy the rest of the evening.

 Us on the tram on the way in.

 This is the first time the kids got to go to see all the lights when they can actually remember it.  We watched the parade also.

 The adults got to enjoy hot chocolate and conversation while the kids rode rides together.

 I think this was the welcome to Dollywood snowman.

 Olivia made silly faces all night.

 Car ride home.

My sister finally updated her blog after moving from Germany and getting settled so I took these pics from hers.

We visited the Bush Beans Factory close to Dandridge.

 Cousin lunch time. I can't believe how small they all look and it's only been a few months!

 Lowes Saturday craft with a bazillion kids it seemed.

 Not sure where we were.

 Dress up time.

 Aquarium in Gatlinburg.

 Listening to outside music concert in Dandridge.

Christmas So Far

The kids really like taking the manger scene out of the box.

 They decorated the upstairs tree first, then the downstairs.  I think Isaac and Olivia put on all the ornaments except for a few I helped Elias put on the tree.

 Christmas with G&G.  I think she looks pretty good for having surgery 3 days earlier!

 Fun doodle toy for the car! 

 Sweet batmobile.  It even shoots!!

 You can't go wrong with getting a baby for Olivia.

 An owl mug....since she's a hoot owl.  Now she can stay up late with a cup of tea!

It's the 4th Annual Gingerbread Making Night with the Strings!

 This year we kept it small, but added trees. Super neat idea Erin!

 Elias did his share of eating while decorating.

 Ta Da!

 And since the big game was on, this is where Justin and Erik spent most of the evening.  I think MO lost. Boo.

 Final products.  Of the 4 we took home, Luci ate 2 of them. Whoops.  Luci waited two days and then decidred she wanted to reach the back of the counter.  Shoulda known.

 I just liked the cheese face.

Olivia performed in our church's children's program -3 services.  She had a speaking part during one of the songs.  Precious.

Mr. Incredible and Batman.

Isaac came in one morning so excited to show me what he drew.  I said, "Aww....it's a guy next to a flower.  And is that poop?"  He
says "YES! IT'S POOP!"\so excitedly and runs to show dad too!

HAPPY 2ND!!!!

It's official.  We have no more infants in the house.  Bitter sweet. He's happy cuz he took some icing off the side and ate it first. 

I think he liked seeing himself on his cake.

Here's the final product.  I had help from the fam in picking a trampoline cake...because of how much he loved jumping all summer long.  Plus it was his 2nd 3-syllable word....right after marshmallow. 

 Opening one present early from G&G since they came during the day.

 I'm glad it was nice enough weather to jump as a family some before dinner. He's doing a balancing act. 

 Down time...except Elias. He's ready to kick.

 Not sure what to think about this one.  They all have their hand at their mouth.

 Thanks for sending the gift Gramp and Nana!

 Toy Study.

 Having fun with neighbor John.

 Brought to you by: Olivia Photography. 

I can't imagine life without him.  He's such a blessing and brings so much fun to the family. Happy Birthday to Elias!!