Happy 4th Birthday, Robin!

Our Christmas Tree

Our neighborhood had cookie decorating with Santa.
Robin stole Santa's seat when he left.
And then there was his first birthday party at school. Well, not really a party, but snack time was birthday cupcakes.
Here he is waiting patiently for his birthday party at the bounce house. Like the weight bench he got for his birthday? He likes to "train" while Dad is at work so he can get one up on him. One day I'm sure.

Abuela & Big Papa snuck in a few baskets at the party.
This yawn was well before pizza and cake. Needless to say, the day ended in total tears and meltdown. But it was fun while it lasted.
Ben 10 Cake. I did not make it and was happy about that decision.
Robin & Kyle
Me, Elisa, and my godchild Adrian. So cute!
And then guess who should arrive? Grammy. She flew in birthday evening and was there when Robin woke up. More presents and tons of fun ensued. Man, those two can crack each other up. One time Grammy was laughing so hard (& if you know her, you know what that sounds like) that Robin said, "I need to get away from this laughing trouble." and walked into the other room.
Christmas cookies of course.
Our first snowman of the season. I hope it snows a few more times here. Unlike New England when you have to drive in it and shovel it for 6 months, here it melts in a few days.

Holiday preparation

After three years of living in Hampton Roads, we finally made it to the Polar Express at Norfolk's Botanical gardens. First, they start with a hot chocolate and cookies while making a bead and jingle bell necklace. Then there is a reading of the story.
Followed by a tram ride through the garden of lights.
Joe's eyeball cracks me up here. I guess we are all in this photo.

Craft/Recycle tip? Getting lots of boxes in the mail with extra packing material? We decided to make our own wrapping paper. Just tape paper to the wall.
Paint some Christmas/Holiday stamps with favorite colors and stamp them to the paper.
Let dry.
Still hiding in boxes at almost 4 years old.
Not the greatest picture, but also wanted documentation that we went to Williamsburg's "Grand Illumination" last night and saw fireworks. Another one of those things I wanted to do in case we move next summer.
Stay tuned. We have a birthday party next weekend and out-of-town visitors.