Christmas Part One

The Thursday before Christmas my parents came up and spent the day with us and celebrated.  The kids were so stinking excited!

Alyssa got the doll house that she has been dying for.  Every time we went somewhere she would see one and wine about wanting one.  So when she opened this the excitement was pretty cute.  I should have video taped it but didn't. 
Knox got a drum set that he to was excited about.  This summer when he first sat down at a set and started playing I knew he had to get some.  After I decided this I thought what was I thinking but at this time have no regrets about it at all!

After a nice visit and dinner my parents left and went to the hotel for the night.  Alyssa and I headed to her last day of swim for the current session while Cory was busy putting together her new doll house. 

She did really good at swim and is swimming on her own.  Her teacher gave her many praises and just said she needs to work on her confidence.  Alyssa loved it because they got to go in the deep end of the pool and jump in and practice swimming to the shallow area.  She did great!   

When all was said and done she got her certificate and was excited to get home to see the progress of the doll house!  It was pretty close to being done and with a little help from me afterwards it was done in no time.  She was so excited and both kids played with it for awhile that evening.

My parents came back over the next morning for a quick visit before returning home.  I was able to get the drum set put together and that has also been a lot of fun for both.  Knox is a natural : )

Christmas Program

Alyssa had her Christmas program at school on the last day before Christmas break began.  She was so excited about it and I had heard her practicing the songs leading up to it.  Every time I asked her about it she said it was a surprise.  She did tell me she was the inn keeper though for their play.  I had no idea about that so was very surprised and curious.  When I asked her about it she told me that she had lines and recited them.  I could barely wait to see this!

The "play" which was them recreating the nativity scene lasted about five minutes.  Some of the kids were in costume and Alyssa just had to wear a vest.  It was stinking cute!  All the kids did very well and from what I saw there were no issues at all.After that was all done they sang about four songs.  I can't remember all of them now but again it was very cute.  I have some video of it but won't post it since their are children that I don't know in it.

After the performance they had a cookie / juice social.  It was fun to watch all the kids play together.  When I say that I mean Knox running around with all the boys!  Alyssa really seemed to enjoy it and was good at participating.  I asked her if she was nervous and she told me she likes being on stage.  I wouldn't have expected anything else from her.

I got a sweet picture of her teacher and her together.  Alyssa "loves" her so much.  I look forward to going to many more of these performances throughout the years!  Don't mind the mark on Alyssa's face it's from her sucking her thumb and drooling.  She tells me she will stop when she is five....hmm...that's two months so we shall see! 

Bellingham

The kids and I were getting together with a friend of mine and her kids and we decided to drive up to Bellingham for their Christmas festival that was going on.  It was Friday and a yucky day out until we headed North where the blue sky was out and what was a beautiful day.

We arrived at the festival and went in and looked at all the Gingerbread houses and started listening to some of the school choirs performing.  After a few minutes we had wondered away and asked someone when all the kids activities were going to begin.  They informed us that their website was wrong and the children's activities would be tomorrow.  Sigh...oh well we weren't going to let it ruin our day.

The kids ran around on the dock and it was truly a beautiful cold fall day.  These are my favorite.  We decided to head to Red Robins for lunch and then went over to McDonald's for a ice cream cone and to let the kids play in the play land.  I hate those places just because I think of all the germs.  Really are they any worse than some other places?!  Anyways when we were at lunch there was a quick snow shower but it didn't last too long and the snow came back out.

We had the play area to ourselves and the kids had a blast!  A three hour blast at that!  Kelly and I were able to enjoy some great conversation while the kids were playing.  We finally decided to head back to Arlington because we were going with our friends to a Christmas party that night at the hospital where she works.  The kids were pretty excited and Alyssa especially because she wanted to tell Santa something else she wanted.

It was a simple party with goodies, dinner if you wanted, fire trucks all decorated for Christmas, and of course Santa himself.  The kids sat on his lap, again.  I wasn't expecting much from the photo but later that week when Kelly brought it to me I was surprised in what I got.  First off I thought it was a pretty cute picture and then I got a 8x10, three 5x7's, and 4 wallets all for FREE.  That made me seriously reconsider where we go but I just can't seem to break tradition!

Anyways around seven we headed back home after the long day and the kids were wiped, as I was too!

Santa Pictures

We made our annual trip to the downtown Nordstroms for our visit with Santa this last week.  Every year we talk about going somewhere closer to home but I don't think either one of us can break tradition.  So as long as the kids are getting pictures done with the jolly 'ol man we will be making the trek.

Since this is a popular location we have some rules that we follow.  First off we only go on weekdays and secondly we try and get there as close to opening as we can.  We were successful on both of these.  I was very curious to how Knox was going to do with Santa.  He wasn't interested in him last year at all and the first Santa we saw this year the only way I got him to go was because I went as well.  I have to say he was very excited.  Was that because his sister was?  Or because I kept talking about he would get a candy cane afterwards?  Im not sure but whatever it was it worked!

When we got there we had about a ten minute wait which was nothing.  They were all excited and Alyssa brought the Target toy catalog with her so she could show Santa exactly what it was that she wanted..  This is no joke.  She had been talking about it for weeks, since it came in the mail pretty much around Halloween.  Anyways after they took the pictures and Cory and I were deciding which one we wanted I heard the kids talking with Santa and it was so cute.

Santa was saying "So Alyssa you want a computer huh?"  Alyssa, "Yes, and this.." as she opened up the catalog and proceeded to point to all the toys on the pages that she wanted.  Im not sure what Santa thought but he humored her.  When he asked Knox of course he said "Race car!"

Like I said in a previous post when I get all our Santa pictures back I will put them together.  I will have four when all is said and done!  Alyssa has kind of questioned it but doesn't push it. Thank goodness!

Afterwards we headed back over to Pacific Place where we parked and got some coffee and pictures by the nut crackers.  When we were all finished we headed on up to Magnolia to visit Grammy.  The kids were so excited to see her.  We hung out and visited and the kids were jabbering and running amuk when Grammy offered to watch the kids and let us go out for a bite.  It's hard to pass an offer up like that!  I think Cory and I were out the door before she even finished the sentence. 

We told the kids goodbye and they probably could have cared less.  There are very few people they will truly do this with.  They are good whenever we leave them but Grammy is one of those that they barely look up when we say goodbye!

Cory and I decided to stay close since Grammy's house keeper was coming by soon.  We ended up going to this dive bar in Magnolia, the Boxcar.  Cory had been there before for drinks but I don't think he had got any food before.  I wasn't sure exactly what to expect but to my surprise it was actually a pretty cool place and the food was amazing!

After being gone for two hours we headed back to the apartment.  The kids were hiding from us when we came in.    We visited for a little while longer before leaving late afternoon.  Both kids were exhausted!  Im not sure what Grammy is doing to them but whatever it is I need to drop them off more! 

I got some really cute pictures of the kids at Grammy's on my camera that I haven't put on the computer yet that I will have to post another time.

Potty Training

The last four months Knox has been showing interest in potty training in one form or another.  I haven't pushed it too much because honestly I'm busy and didn't want to deal with it really.  I wasn't buying diapers any more and had switched to pull ups to kind of get him used to that, the pulling up and down of his pants.  I probably didn't have to but I did.  We had read books and of course he watches all of us go.  He loves to flush the toilet and my one rule has been the person who puts pee or poop in the toilet gets to flush.  This kind of upsets him but on the same hand has encouraged him as well.  He also is interested in doing everything his big sister does and I tell him until he is potty trained he can not. 

Well there have been days when he would go here and there in the potty.  When we were down in Longview I got him to go several times along with pooping.  He was having fun.  I decided when we got back we were in it full force.  I got rid of our diaper pail and he is wearing underwear full time now.  At night tho I will still put him in a pull up, I'm not ready to deal with that part just yet.  He has woke up several times dry but one thing at a time for me!

Several friends have told me that with boys it takes longer and that I should wait, especially considering his age.  I get that but also think it depends on the child as well.  Mine showed interested and so why wouldn't I go for it!

As I write this we are in it full force and he is doing great!  I'm so proud of him and he is so excited as well.  His big sister has also been helping and it's so stinking cute to watch them.  They will go to the bathroom together.  I have a potty chair he will use or he will sit on the toilet or stand.   It just depends on his mood.  It's kind of funny.

I will say that after doing diapers for the last four and a half years I am done!  I have several cute pictures of him but wont post just because of the nature.  Im sure will have no problem though using for blackmail later on in life, haha!

Santa Breakfast In Longview

We headed down to Longview on the first weekend of December for a Santa breakfast we were invited to go to with Grandma Gail.  We left on Cory's birthday so we didn't do a huge celebration but I felt him and I celebrated the weekend before and when we came back the kids made him birthday cupcakes so not all was lost.  He was also able to spend the day with friends and enjoy a nice quiet house!

Friday were hung out at my parent's house all day and just relaxed and the kids played.  I say relaxed because I was actually able to get a little nap in!  First of all I don't nap so that was nice and secondly the kids were completely entertained!  It's times like this I miss having any family by us.  The days was a nice and lazy!

Saturday was the breakfast with Santa.  The kids were pretty excited to go.  We went and picked up Grandma Gail and headed on down to the event.  When we arrived we saw my sister in law and her three kids.
The kids seemed to enjoy their fresh fruit, sausage, and french toast sticks for breakfast.  I didn't have any of it but according to Grandma Gail it could have been a little better.  After breakfast all the kids got their picture taken with Santa, pic one of four for mine.  The picture turned out cute and when I get all the Santa pictures I will post them.  Once the picture was done it was onto the crafts.  Necklaces, reindeer magnets, and frosted cookies were all made and enjoyed!

When time rolled around the two man band started with various songs and Alyssa and Knox loved it.  They were both right up there participating and having a great time.  This lasted for at least thirty minutes and when all was said and done they got their trees and present which was cookie cutters and rolling pin.  Alyssa has informed me she would like to do that again.  I think it was a hit!

Afterwards we went back to Grandma Gails and the kids got to hang out with their cousins for a little bit before they left.  Then we were headed to Target for a little shopping.  Alyssa has been bugging me for these shoes she has so desperately wanted for what seems like forever!  It's probably been two months or so.  Anyways Grandma Gail told her she would get her these shoes, they are black Mary Jane style with flowers on front a rhinestone buckle and small heel.  Alyssa informed me that she loves the shoes because they make noise when she walks. 

After dinner we headed back to my parents house where the kids had fun hanging out and playing more.  When we were getting ready for bed Knox and Alyssa were so stinking cute with their Auntie Robin.  Knox told Auntie that he missed her gave her hugs and kisses and told her he wanted her to sleep next to him and shared his pillow.  It was so cute!  Then Alyssa and Knox were giving each other kisses good night.

These two can simply be the sweetest!  We headed back somewhat early the next day and were home by noon.  It was a fun quick weekend and a nice start to Christmas festivities.

Thanksgiving Surprise

The kids had a little surprise on Thanksgiving before dessert.  This year we had an Elf pay us a visit.  He brought the Christmas pajamas that they were to put on before the book was read and the explanation of who he was. 

The kids loved the pj's and ran upstairs to change almost in record time and were back down to hear the story.  Alyssa named him Giggles, which has slowly turned into Mr. Giggles.

He has been up to all kinds of shenanigans and I will post all of those after he heads back to the North Pole on Christmas Eve.

Alyssa and Knox both loved the pj's.  She got Hello Kitty and Knox got Spider Man.  The Elf did a great job in picking out exactly what they would like.   At first Knox wasn't too into it but it has slowly changed and I think he likes it when Mr. Giggles does something that he gets into "trouble" for because he finds it so dang funny.  Alyssa is hilarious about it and at times I think questions it but for the most part goes along with it. 

I do have to say as much as I liked the idea of him arriving on Thanksgiving to kick off the next Holiday, I should have thought on how many days I would be having to do this!   Mr. Giggles even got to travel with us which the kids couldn't believe when he showed up!   It's been fun though and watching the expressions of the kids has been all worth it! 

Thanksgiving

I love all the holidays and I could probably say when each one rolls around it's my favorite for whatever reason.  That is how I felt at Thanksgiving.  We had a very mellow celebration with Cory's parents and Grandmother at our house.  The dinner was simple and delicious with great wine and appetizers.  The conversations and entertainment, kids, were fun as well.  We missed those who couldn't be with us but it was a really relaxing day that I was thankful for!

I have seen on line people saying what they are thankful for every day of November.  There are so many things I'm thankful for everyday that I find it weird to limit it to one month a year everyday to say what I'm thankful for.  I know that sometimes people forget and lose touch the things they are thankful for and get caught up in "life."  What I decided to do was list the thirty things that I'm thankful for on here with a little explanation of each.  They will be in no particular order.

1. Cory ~ My husband, best friend, lover, father of our children etc.  I can't imagine our lives without him.  He makes me laugh at the goofy things he says and does sometimes.  Some people might not get to see that side but thankfully I do.  This is someone I could do anything with and have a blast and never get tired of being around.  Having known him since he was a teenager and turn into an adult and then a father has been a true blessing!

2. Locks on doors ~  Being a SAHM this has been a true blessing at times.  Once in a while I do enjoy using the restroom or taking a shower without little eyes and hands all over me, asking questions, or plain just staring.  Thankfully my daughter has out grown this!

3. Coconut ~ Yes I love it and will take it in any form.  Raw, cooked, water, oil, etc.  It's the best and in fact while I write this I am drinking some.  The health benefits it has is amazing.  Frankly for me it's the taste and smell and I hate to say it but I think I like it better than chocolate, well maybe not.

4. Gym ~ It's one of my favorite places.  I can go there drop the kids off for two hours to play doing numerous activities all while I work out.  Whether it's kick boxing, barre, yoga, ab lab, cycle or just working out on the elliptical I am there!  What a stress relief and health boost too!

5. Alyssa ~ She is my beautiful 4 almost ,5 as she would say, daughter.  I can't imagine life without her.  My life has changed in ways I never imagined because of her.  She is a very bright, determined, creative, funny, girly girl.  Although I'm sure she would say she was a princess and I know we will have our hands full when she is a teenager I can't wait!

6.  Books ~ I love to read, read, read.  Nothing makes me more happy, well I'm sure there are some things, but to curl up with a good book by a fire place with a cup of tea. 

7. Animals ~ Mainly my dog, Harley.  As crazy as he can be at times I love him and all of his quirkiness.  Animals in general are really just amazing.

8. Home ~ My house...I'm thankful for a roof over my head and a place to keep my love bugs warm at night.  It may not be the 3000sq ft. house with the perfect flooring and counter tops etc. etc. but again it's our house.  The material things will all come one day if we so choose to go that route.  What I love about it most is the memories we are making in it.  Frankly wherever the four of us, five including Harley, lay our heads at night is home.  As long as we are together..

9. Music ~ Seriously how can you not be thankful for this!?  I listen to it daily and all kinds depending on mood and situation.  I have dance parties with my two little ones who like to see a white girl with no rhythm dance. When music is on let me tell you my inner Shakira, Beyonce, JLo or whoever, comes out and I think I can move like them.  Well at least in my head!   I love that a song can come on and it instantly brings you back to a time and place.  Such a wonderful creation!

10.  Sports ~  I grew up playing several and at times miss it.  My favorites, college football/basketball, baseball, hockey. 

11. Chocolate ~ 'nuff said.

12. Red wine ~  I will admit Cory and I have been becoming wine snobs.  Since touring several and learning a lot about the process it's really amazing, to me.  I want to learn so much more about the process and tour different regions.  Don't get this confused with price though.  There are some good cheap wines out there and horrible expensive ones too.

13.  Craft beer ~  Well I couldn't put wine on here and leave this one out!  Again, call me a beer snob and that is fine but nothing is better than a craft beer.  Something with a little flavor and substance is a whole lot better than drinking those popular brands that taste like piss!  Excuse me there but true, well I wouldn't know since I have never drank one of them but if I were that's what I imagine it to taste like.  If you have a  Pale Ale, Amber, IPA, Porter, my answer will be, "yes please!"

14. Garbage Man ~ For the obvious.  Mainly because he comes at 630am every Tuesday on the dot.  Since he does this my son gets up and is so excited to see him.  I'm thankful for not having seven days a week with both of my kids sleeping in to at least 830.  Yes that is right, I'm thankful for this!  It's a pretty cute scene.

15. Knox ~ My son, little man.  He brightens my day and keeps me on my toes.  His smile melts my heart like no other.  I love how he is all boy, sense of humor, eagerness to learn, laugh, gentle, and so much more.   Life is now complete with him in it.

16. Weather ~ Again, another obvious we need it for one thing or another.  For me though I enjoy it all.  Rain, sun, wind, snow, hail, storms you name it.

17. Washington ~ My state.  Seriously we live in my opinion in one of the best areas.  We have so much at our fingertips.  I love the fact that I can get up and decide to be near water, mountains, or with a little drive desert.  I can bike, hike, swim, camp, ski and do so many activities if I chose to do so.

18. My Mom ~ For the obvious she gave birth to me!  Seriously she is my Mom and I can't imagine the world without her.  Even through differences there is a connection there that maybe I didn't get until having my own children but she is my Mom. Love you!

19.  My Fab Five ~ These are my four closest girlfriends who are simply the best!  We are all very different but the things I have learned and continue to learn from them are amazing! I could probably write a whole book on these ladies and the stuff we have gone through and endured.  No worries, I won't!  These Ladies I don't have to talk with every day or see each other but we pick up as if no time has gone by.  There is an instant connection with us all. Miranda, Stacy, Michelle M., and Marisa, Kelly you are simply the best!

20. My Dad ~ Although he isn't my biological father he is my Dad.  As the old saying goes, anyone can become a father but it takes a real man to be a Dad.  Love you!

21 Grammy ~ Since I lost my Grandparents at such an early age I never really had them growing up.  When Cory came into my life he still had his Grandmother and she is the best.

22. Art / Photography ~ It's a passion.

23. Cooking / Baking ~ Another passion.

24. My children ~ I know they are on here above but seriously since having them people have come into my life that if I wouldn't have had them probably never would have and for that I'm thankful!

25. Good health

26. God

27. In Laws ~ Thankful I have great ones whom we got a long and can stand each other!

28.  Siblings /Family

29. Technology

30. Smile / Laughter

This is my list, some are silly some are obvious but really I could come up with so many more. I'm sure I have bored many but that is just another thing I'm thankful for, freedom of speech!