PROMOTION

Mid-December, there were promotions in karate class.

Promotions are not based on time or age, but on ability.

A refreshing thing nowadays.

The girls both got a school patch. 

 One got a new belt and one did not.

Afterwards they had a little celebration for everyone.

It involved chocolate.

While wearing a white gi.

Lovely thing.

I'm glad I was able to get the stains out.

I was worried for a little while!

NEW YEAR

A brief glimpse into our New Year's Eve festivities.

Mike had to work and being that it was the last day of the month--had to work late! :(

New Year's Eve is one of the celebrations the kids most look forward to..

staying up until midnight and the different games and activities are always fun.

This year we did a count down (pinterest inspired) that went over pretty well.

I put a task or activity into each balloon and strung them up.

On the hour, the kids would take turns and pop the balloon and we would complete the task/activity inside.  The countdown started at 4pm.  Unfortunately, Mike missed half of it.

What New Year's Eve party is complete without special goodies? 

 This is just a little sampling.

I didn't get too many pictures unfortunately, but some of our activities included a board game, a "dance party," Bible reading and prayer, family movie, working on an end of the year all about me paper, and opening a couple of gifts.

Five out of six made it until midnight.

And it wasn't the baby that fell asleep!

How did you spend your New Year's Eve?

THE WHITE STUFF

Last weekend, we got quite a dumping on.

Our last measurement was at 19 inches, but it snowed for several more hours so I'm sure it was at least 2 feet of snow.  I'm glad it was on a weekend.  Mike was home and we didn't have to be anywhere.  The kids are having a blast playing in it.  They're outside at this moment getting soaked!

Quite a bit has melted already and it is bright and sunny outside today.

With the fairly mild winter we've had, I guess we can't complain about any accumulation.

Even so, I don't know about you, but I'm ready for Spring!

THANKSGIVING

17 kiddos on my side gathered for Thanksgiving.

Including the two from Idaho.

We thank the Lord for all these blessings.

5

Travis turned 5 at the end of November.

It feels like a lifetime ago already!

Around here, we make a big deal out of turning 5.

His breakfast of choice.

Party day.

This after is was rescheduled because we were hit with sickness.

He and his buddy.

The kids are able to invite some friends if they want for their 5th birthday party.

This guy was the only one he wanted.

 We had the party at the firehouse

and as you can see, it was Ninja Turtle themed.

Happy 5th Birthday, Boogie Boy!

ONE

 photo credit tarachristensen

CORN MAZE

Back at the end of October, we went to the local corn maze with a group of homeschool friends.

As always, the kids had a great time.

It was really, really windy and chilly--though the pictures don't show it.

Getting ready for the wagon ride!

Corn maze!

It was actually warmer in there, the corn blocked the wind!

Observation deck in the center.

He really wanted that corn!

All done.

Taking a break and enjoying an apple & lemonade.

Playing in the corn!

Much better than sand!

A few more minutes on the slide

I tried for a group shot.

Key word there being, "tried."

Grant was done.

Always a fun time!

Til next year!