Let the Christmas fun begin!

I am feeling very excited for Christmas this year, and I think it all has to do with that sweet little boy of mine. He is not old enough to really grasp the idea of Christmas, but old enough to enjoy some of the things that go along with it... but without the greediness that will no doubt arrive in a couple years.

I had planned to get out all the Christmas decorations this weekend, but didn't... guess that will be next weekend. We did enjoy some Christmas fun however, make a trip to the Redmond Town Center where they have a little "train" that drives around the parking lot. Quin was completely and utterly beside himself. He had a fit when we walked past it (had to get to the ATM first) and when it came time to get off the train... for get it! He could have gone on and on for hours. We also paid a visit to Santa, for a boy who is not at all shy, he sure was hesitant to sit on the ol' jolly elf's lap. The closest he got to a smile was when he heard to "beep beep" of the train driving past outside Santa's "shop". Later this week we will attend our work Christmas Open House... and this upcoming weekend, Dan and I are eagerly awaiting a weekend to ourselves, a trip to the Seattle Symphony and a nice restaurant. We should also get some much needed Christmas shopping completed... with a stop at a couple Toy Stores, I will be officially DONE!

(Notice how disgruntled he is in this picture... it's because we were forcing him to leave the train!)

In other news, Quin is keeping us amused as he is now all about "tickling" you. He will get you and say "tickle, tickle" in an adorable little toddler way. Of course, we have to pretend that we are being tickled to pieces. Also, for the first time that we have observed he is jumping and he loves it! He will jump at ever opportunity, usually while yelling "jump!". He has discovered his love for "cha milk" a.k.a chocolate milk. He is putting together more and more words to create more complex phrases. He has also begun "reading" all by himself, especially "Good Night Moon". He will go through the pages saying "night mouse, night star, night kitty". His new love of Richard Scarry books is... well.... scary.

With a long weekend, there is much to be Thankful for. I am so glad to have a day specifically devoted to reminding ourselves of all we are blessed with. We hosted Thanksgiving at our home this year and only had time to contemplate today after the house was cleaned, but here is what I have thought about (in no paticular order!):

1. My two nieces, Annie and Karli who helped me clean up the kitchen and hand wash our nice dishes, they made the clean up go SO much faster.
2. My brother in law Karl, simply because Quincy loves him so much, that he yelled "No!" every time Karl put on his jacket to try and leave.
3. My dear sister in law, whom I adore and look up to, she shows me how to be a loving mother and a strong wife.
4. Our Uncle Jim! He brought the Turkey, cooked to perfection!
5. My father-in-law Gary, who kept us all entertained with his tales of bravery and adventure as a Seattle motorcycle cop.
6. My sister-in-law Deb, who has provided hours of endless entertainment by bringing beloved Richard Scary books for Quincy.
7. My darling Dan, who helps me in every way he can ... and flows an endless stream of compliments to me like whenever I am needing it most.
8. Quincy. How is it that such a little munchkin can be so smart, cuddly and good-natured? How is that somebody I have known for so short a period of time, have me so totally in love? How could any future children ever even come close? Is it even worth risking the disappointment?
9. My family in California. I can't stop thinking about how excited I am to see my family for the holidays! I am so excited to see how Quin enjoys them like I do.
10. Lastly, Weight Watchers. I am needing it right about now.

A weekend with Quincy

A photographic journal of Quincy's weekend...

New word : MINE

Brushing those pearly whites:

"Helping" Mommy with yardwork!

Bathtime Artistry!

Happy Birthday Mom!

I have almost always thought it was something quite special to share a birthday with my mom. Something that sets us both apart from other mom's and daughters. Mom, I cherish you. Thank you for your love and support through the years. Happy Birthday!

Yay! Family Photos!!!

We had some family photos taken in October, and I have quite anxiously awaited a glimpse of how they turned out! At last we have some to see... see more at Kelli's blog. Apologies if you see these again in a Christmas Card, or packaged up in a frame as a Christmas gift! :)

Haunted House...SPOOKY

At our little party, the kids decorated a "Haunted Gingerbread House". They did a great job, all participating with only some of the candy being consumed. This has resulted in a mostly sticky floor, and I have mopped twice now....less sticky, but still some stick. Anyhow, here is the house in progress as well as the completed materpiece. Martha would be proud.