Christmas 2014

The boys had their Christmas program last week.  When they were entering the stage, I whispered to Moose, "I hope they have their shirts tucked in.  I hope their zippers are up."  Moose chimed in with a, "I hope their dry."  Well, they were dry and their zippers were up.  Will's tie on the other hand, was note even under his collar.  Not sure what happened between daycare and school.

First grade Christmas program.

Jack, Mrs. Zelen

Will, Mr. Olson.
Will said earlier this year, "I like having a mister for a teacher."

It was nice that they were standing near each other.
Too bad I couldn't get a better shot.

Early this week, Moose set Christmas morning rules with the kids.

1. They had to wait on the landing until everyone was awake.
2. Stockings opened first.
3. Then breakfast.
4. Finally, they had to be patient as we opened gifts one by one.

The first three were successful.  The fourth one, was followed the best that could have been expected.

Stockings first.

Pure joy.

"Mining" for gems.

Playing Disney's Guess Who together.

Benner/Lutz Christmas

Yesterday we hosted the 2nd annual Benner/Lutz family Christmas.  Our family was gracious to drive north for the day and celebrate.  One thing I continually forget is to take pictures, especially group ones.  There's always next year.

Auntie Katie is so good about getting pictures with the kids.

Drew loves to color and draw.

He is also an avid reader.

Jack tearing into his gift.

Sydnee very excited to receive an Elsa doll.

Robb and I.
What you can't see is Sydnee at my hip.
She really wanted to be in the picture.

Santa

While Moose was in bed with strep throat.  The kids and I head south to attend my Aunt Kathy's wake and see Santa at the Mall of America.

The boys did great waiting patiently for Santa.

The girls played with their Lego people
while Santa was feeding his reindeer.

'Tis the Season

After being away from the family for almost 5 full days, it was heart warming to return home to find the tree ready to be decorated.  We spent the evening reminiscing as we hung the ornaments.

Sydnee lead the ornament hanging tonight.

Jack had a very specific location in mind for one of his ornaments.

Will was extra careful as he hung his ornaments.

Allie enjoyed seeing herself as a "baby."

Lots of hugs from Will tonight.

Allie wanted a pic with mommy too.

Allie's nutcracker is hanging so low that it is standing on the floor.

Moose and Jack were the manning the hook station.

Sydnee did the honors of placing the star on the tree.

I tried playing around with the settings on our camera. 
This is the paint setting.

Allie made adjustments to the star.

 



End of the night group photo.