Merry Christmas 2020

Milk and cookies for Santa, and carrots for the reindeer

We had a quiet Christmas Eve this year.  We took a walk and played games with our neighbors down the street.  We ate cheese and crackers for dinner, opened a few gifts and watched a movie.  It was actually really nice to have a low key evening with no plans.  These were their new Christmas jammies and slippers.

The kids opened gifts from Lance's side of the family on Christmas Eve.  After opening they immediately started building the new toys they got.  Rylee is building a Lego Friends airplane and Carson is building a mini skate park.

On Christmas morning we woke up to new sleds and a whole pile of presents.  Santa Came! 🎅

Grandma Marcia, Papa Mike, Aunt Mandy, Uncle Jon and Kennedy came over Christmas morning for brunch and gifts.  We also had to celebrate my Dad's (Papa Mikes) birthday!

The kids got way too many gifts as usual.  They love making forts out of their gifts every year.

Of course Coulee had to be involved with everything.  She got quite a few gifts this year too!  Spoiled dog.  This art set was one of Rylee's favorite gifts.

We spent lots of family time together, playing games and snuggling.  It was one of my favorite Christmases yet!

Kennedy was so much fun.  That girl is such a trooper.  She was so happy all day and evening.  She loved opening her gifts and playing with all of Rylee's things.  

The kids were hilarious on the trampoline.  Kennedy was giggling nonstop!

Carson was very surprised to get his BMX bike.  He was a little disappointed that Santa didn't bring it, and after Christmas morning I think he had determined he wasn't getting it this year.  His face was priceless when he saw it.  One happy boy!

We had our traditional prime rib and crab dinner... so delicious!!  We ended the evening with carrot cake cupcakes for Dad's bday and some card playing.  Perfect day.  💗

Holiday festivities

 

We were able to find many safe and fun ways to celebrate this holiday season.  We had our annual cookie baking party with Grandma Marcia, Aunt Mandy and Kennedy.  We made candy canes, snowballs, magic bars, and the kids decorated sugar cookies.

Our neighbor Barb started a new tradition with the kids- gingerbread man and house decorating.  They also frosted sugar cookies.  She hosted Rylee, Carson, our neighbor Bryce, and her friend Cameron.  

The kids had so much fun and came home with so many goodies!

We also did our annual Christmas light viewing with hot cocoa and blankets in tow.  We drove through sky island and other neighborhoods in Bonney Lake.  People went all out this year!  We got some creative ideas for next year.  😊  Now we are ready for Christmas!

Award Winners

 This year has been challenging for sure.  Virtual school has been iffy at times, and I find myself wondering if the kids are learning anything.  I am constantly questioning myself- should I be doing more?  Less?  They want their space to do school independently, but then I wonder if they're actually getting done what needs to be done and doing quality work.  Its hard for everyone.

We recently had parent- teacher conferences via zoom.  Both of the kids teachers had good things to say.  They both are keeping up and doing well.  Their report cards were great!  Then came some awards... time to brag a little!😎

Carson got a Viking Card Award earlier this year for being respectful.  The vice principle called to congratulate him and tell us how great he is.  We were very proud!  😊

Rylee got a "Golden Ruler" Award last month for her academics.  Such a smart girl!  🎉

Carson got an "Empathy Award" this month from his teacher.  The November and December assemblies were online so I got to watch both him and Rylee get their awards.  Very exciting for me!  I could tell the kids were proud.  💗