Frozen Gingerbread Village

After school last Wednesday, I surprised the big kids with the fun activity of making gingerbread houses. They have been begging for one for years and I finally caved. This type of thing is definitely not my jam but at least I live in the day and age where I can simply purchase a kit from Walmart.

After a few arguments, one tossing of a frosting tube, a million sprinkles flying across the kitchen, a very disappointed mother and ten minutes in timeout, the village did turn out pretty neat. 

Afterward, we had a special night out in Hastings. Jentry and I introduced Mason to Arby's and then we gorged on popcorn and candy while catching the flick, Frozen II. 

Nathan and Tucker enjoyed an unusually quiet evening at home.

Tucker is TWO Clean

I never dreamed that I would create a vacuum themed party for my child but that is exactly what happened this year. Since Tucker is obsessed with brooms and vacuums of all kinds, what other theme could we possibly select for his party?

Happy 2nd Birthday Tuckeroo.

I. Love. You!

Miracle at Midnight

The children's Christmas program at church was fantastic! Jentry had a significant speaking part as Mayor Mayer of Bethlehem and Mason sang his heart out with the other little ones in there solo song "Oh Little Town of Bethlehem."

So grateful for all the volunteers that made this performance come to life!

Jentry and her classmates were excited to wrap up their last Christmas program performance. This group is definitely going to keep Pastor Mary on her toes in confirmation next year.

All spiffed up and looking good for the SPS Elementary Christmas Concert. Mason and Jentry performed very well and the music was fantastic.

Nathan attended the afternoon performance and then offered to stay home with Tucker, who had been sick for weeks, so that I could truly enjoy the show.

Keepin' it real:

This picture captured what appeared to be a joyous evening of Christmas music and celebration. However the truth is, shortly after this was taken the wheels completely fell off the bus. I yelled at Mason and Jentry for pestering each other and then spewed threats for them to get into the car. I gave Tucker a half hug as he bawled his eyes out that I was leaving without him. Then I told Nathan, "Sorry but I didn't fix anything for supper so good luck with that." I blew my nose for the 8 billionth time, hacked into my elbow and shoved a handful of cough drops into my purse as I scrambled out the door.

Christmas, a magical time of the year filled with all kinds of illness! Thankfully I have these photos to remember the "happy times".

'Tis The Season

People throughout the world have their different ways of preparing for Christmas. Some light candles. Some sing songs. Some eat candies. Some give gifts. Some hang wreaths and lights. Many do all the above and more.

In Sutton, they attend the Parade of Lights. It is the official commencement of the Christmas season in our community. This year the kids enjoyed a scavenger hunt, cookie decorating, bounce houses, hot chocolate, an airplane train, nachos, and a lighted parade.

Mason was pumped to ask Santa for a dirt bike and remote control boat. He then exited Santa's lap and immediately told the next kid in line, "It isn't the real Santa, it is only Mr. McElfresh and Mrs. Stone the bus driver." Ugh that kid! You can't fool him.

Tuck wasn't so sure about any of it and Jentry disappeared with her girlfriends shortly after the notorious kids pic with the big guy.

Another sign that Christmas is near is the arrival of David the Elf. Direct from the North Pole. He was in the kitchen when we returned home from Thanksgiving in Orleans and Mason took the bait...hook, line and sinker. He abruptly began asking Nathan and me, "Is there anything I can do to help you?" Wink wink! Oh Mason, I'm not sure any amount of spotless behavior could make up for a year of your shenanigans, but I have to give him credit for trying.

This year, I finally have a bit of elf assistance from one of Santa's older "Secret Helpers" and let me tell you it has put the Spirit back in this Mama's Christmas! Life changing for sure. Plus, the Secret Helper is much more creative. Win win!