Merry Christmas 2016

We felt very lucky this year to kick off our Christmas traditions in the new house. Christmas Eve morning means candy, candy, candy.

And a couple of gingerbread houses.

Then it's time to get ready for church, to celebrate Jesus's birthday.

Chinese food for dinner, a proud tradition from Dad's childhood.

Christmas morning was especially dramatic this year, there was so much suspense from the top of the stairs!

It was an awesome day, and our parents kept reminding us how lucky we are. They feel lucky, too.

We played all day, loving our house and our new toys.

And Dad made perfect pancakes.

Christmas Card 2016

Some years you are organized and prepared, setting up a family session with a professional photographer in a beautiful field to create Christmas cards with a pearl luster finish. And some years you get elf pajamas at Target and take pictures in your back yard. 

Bikes

Mom and Dad got bikes for Christmas.

The winter is our favorite time, since you can actually enjoy being outside!

Little Men

The big boy life is the best.

Hockey games, sports bars, ice cream...

Embracing our inner puppy self...

And wanting to be just like Dad.

Lucky boys have awesome big sisters.

Little Chef

Maybe it's Mom's obsession with Ina that has inspired me to get creative in the kitchen.

I love making up unique recipes for everyone to try.

Sometimes they are delicious. Sometimes they are not.

This picky little monster has been more open to new foods. Instead of immediately saying he HATES anything new and unfamiliar, he has been willing to give it one bite before saying he hates it. And, he has decided to like Italian food!