Christmas Prelude

Natalie's first program of the season...what a wonderful job she did. Here she is waiting to sing her songs with her friends. They did a great job! We enjoyed hearing them get us in the "Christmas mood." She sang really well. I wish I had gotten a closer seat so I could get a short video at least! But, I ran up to the front like the parent I am and at least got this shot of her!

After that program, we journeyed to see Mimi and Poppa so we could see Aunt Angelia and Uncle Doug. When we left the car, we wanted to go out and do something, even though it was cold! So, we went walking on the street. Their street has as many lights out as you need in a drive by area, so we were quite happy to see all the neat displays.

The first morning after travel is always tough, and Poppa got up earlier than he usually does to help me out with the kids.

We then went to the mall to play on their rides and little play area. We then ventured down to Santa. Neither one of the kids were too happy to see him at first. Nicole clung tightly to Poppa's leg most of the time, except when one of the workers tried to bribe with a candy cane. Natalie dropped her fear to get the candy cane, and eventually got a nice picture on Santa's lap.

Nicole said "no closer than this!"

We had a good time visiting with Uncle Doug and Aunt Angelia. Nicole liked backing into Doug's lap and sitting there for a while. Then, repeat the process!

Angelia with Natalie.

We then came home for Natalie's Christmas program and party at school. I forgot my camera and didn't get any photos of the program (hey, we brought presents, fruit, and ourselves..the camera was left on the desk!). But, Natalie was happy to get a couple of gifts from her classmates.

We did actually get at least one round of cookies made this season. I hope to have another round made soon. Although, I don't need to eat any more!! We had fun with the cutters and sprinkles.

Then, off to a birthday party for Natalie's friend, Timothy. It was a "dress up" party, so Natalie was a cheerleader and Nicole was able to wear the bear outfit she didn't get to wear for Halloween. They were very cute and had a great time. There were two Batmans and two Robins there, plus one Batgirl. I was surprised that 4-5 year olds would even know who Batman was. I know Natalie hasn't seen the movie (and won't anytime soon). The theme was dinosaurs and they had story time, craft time, then eating time. Nicole discovered a new item that she had never had before: big cheetos. She didn't like me limiting her to two, and tried to take them off other kid's plates!

\

Natalie with her friend, Elysia. Scooby Doo!!