Friday, December 30, 2011

HARD AT WORK

I haven't posted much about how our homeschooling is going.
One of these days, I will, promise.
Just not today.

Overall, we're pleased.

Michael hard at work on his math problems!





CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION #1

With large families on both sides, it makes sense to break up our celebrating.
Plus, we also have birthdays that surround Christmas Day..so it makes for a busy holiday season.

Here are some pictures of our first Christmas celebration.
Trying for the (now) annual couch-shot.
The boys!



There is always one who does not want to cooperate..
This year was no exception.
Can you guess who is missing?
(other than the two in the wombs)



There she is!
At least I got her in a picture, even though it is her backside.



Decorated table.
The kids had made these lanterns at Thanksgiving and now we used them as decor.


Yikes!  There are an awful lot of stockings!



Munchie table.


This little girl was very excited to open presents.
She was waiting oh so patiently!



 Just a few "random" shots of the festivities



We each pick a name and buy for the kiddies but otherwise everything on our end was homemade.
(My house was a DISASTER ZONE for a few weeks while I was cooking and baking and canning)
This year we made marshmallow guns for most of the males (including little boys).
They were a HUGE hit with all.
Very inexpensive and fairly easy to make..and Lots of FUN!







A new baby for the little mommy.


Yes, you are a gift.


A homemade apron from Aunt Essie!


What's in there, Dad?


New aprons all around!


Awesome!  A sled.
Too bad there is no snow!
(NOT that I'm complaining!!  I will take this mild winter weather anytime)


Showing off her new bracelet from Nena and Popi





After everything settled down and bellies were full, we made cookies!


Zack has his first shape picked out





And then we decorated them..



Oh! What fun!


We hope you all had a blessed and happy Christmas
celebrating the Savior!


JUST DANCE

Just before the winter break, we were able to watch a ballerina class.

As you'll see, Carina is at least a head taller than all the other girls.

She did a great job!

when she wasn't being distracted
...
part of the cuteness of a class of 3 and 4 year olds, I suppose.




Good job, Bean!!








I can't wait for the recital in June!!

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

RAKENNA??

Today, I came home with a different girl. 
The kids call her "Rakenna." 
Where THAT came from..don't ask me!!

Rakenna..formerly known as Missy Rian got her first haircut today.
She had been so excited to go and get a big girl haircut.
We just needed to trim up the back and we got her some bangs.
Plus, her hair is fine, so maybe with a trim it will grow back a bit fuller.
The hair was constantly in her face, so at least for a couple of weeks, we'll have a reprieve.


Before.


All ready!
She sat very well.
The stylist couldn't get over how well she sat for a 2 year old.





She really loved the whole thing..
blow dryer included.


Cutie patootie!
What a grown up girl we have now!