Pre-Christmas Day Fun

Snowflake Lane is an annual occurrence outside Bellevue Square. There are lights, music, people dressed up like toy soldiers and other characters, and of course soft falling snow. We decided to experience it this year. Oh my gosh was the mall packed! That’s what we get for going the Saturday before Christmas, but it was the only day we could go. We had to get a little creative when it came to eating dinner at the mall before the event, and used a bench as a table for Kayley. Kayley was pretty excited about all the lights and music. She loves dancing and likes to march too, and the music made her dance in her stroller. She even got a special hello from the Snowflake Queen. We’ll have to go next year so both the girls can enjoy the event (Shilo of course slept through it).

Our make-do table for dinner since all other tables and chairs were taken at the mall

It was super crowded

The Snowflake Queen

On Sunday our bible study group got together for a potluck and cookie decorating. I never imagined everyone to be so creative with the cookies. We ended up with the Ninja Turtles, The Avengers, Spiderman, Mega Man, Bedtime Bear, and so many more fun creations. Kayley and her little friend Irene got into the fun too and both seemed to like using the star sprinkles. It was a fun evening with our friends enjoying one another and talking about our dear precious Savior. 

The girls decorating cookies

Some of the very creative cookies

The Ninja Turtles!

The Avengers!

It is a tradition in my family that my mom’s side of the family always gets together on Christmas Eve. The main event is the gift exchange, which is conducted like a white elephant gift exchange with all the rules, but with new and nice items. You have to be 18 or older to participate, so this year was my niece Sara’s first year. It was fun and entertaining like always, and we came away with a very nice honey pot. I love getting together with my family this time of year. It’s great to all come together and shower one another with love, joy and cheer. And good food. Lots and lots of good food. ^_~ Kayley was excited to see our extended family again, and followed Harriet (my cousin’s eldest) around like a little duck. She also became quite attached to my brother, Jay, and constantly asked him to pick her up and toss her around, which he happily did each time until she wore him out completely. Shilo enjoyed some face time with family too, but was cozy and asleep in her bouncer the majority of the time. 

Food time

Just look at that grin on Kayley's face. She loves her Uncle Jay

Shilo with her first Christmas gift

The dessert layout

The cousins dancing one last time before calling it a night

That night Andrew and I wrapped the last gifts, prepared for Santa’s arrive, decorated the last cookies and Jesus’ birthday cake, and enjoyed a nice glass of apple cider. 

Hoshi supervised us as we set up for the morning