Playing in the snow

We got more than just a light dusting of snow!

We dug out the winter gear. Thankfully there were pants to fit everyone.

The kids loved playing and pulling each other in the sleds. And they warmed up with hot chocolate and chocolate-chip scones when they came in.

Small spaces

Millie loves to sit in containers.

She packs up her dolls and they climb in to any available basket or tub. 

Braces!

We have entered a new era as both Nora and Henry start having some orthodontic work done. On our first visit they made a scan of Henry's mouth in order to make his space maintainers and measured Nora for braces. He was pleased to learn that he didn't have to have spacers put in as was originally planned and could have popcorn for a few more weeks. He will have four teeth taken out next month.

On her second visit Nora had braces put on her top teeth to bring them a little closer and make room for a tooth that is coming in crooked. They are supposed to be on for six months to a year. So no gum or chewy candy for this child.

(And no picture of her with the new braces, but they look good on her.)

Winter cozy

This little one loves reading as much as the rest of us.

She made herself a nice little nest by the fire and looked through a stack of books.

2013

January

February

March

April 

May

 June

 July

August

September

October

November

December

Christmas Day

The kids get their stockings first thing.

 Millie embraced the holiday spirit and was eating her chocolate before anyone noticed.

 The rest of the day was spent eating, opening presents, and enjoying each other's company.

Christmas Eve

We kicked off the day with gingerbread pancakes, blueberries, and whipped cream. Anja and Liisa planned an elaborate scavenger hunt for the kids with a "Twelve Days of Christmas" theme.

After a simple lunch we met for coffee across the street. Monnica and Scarlett joined us.

We went to the Christmas Eve family service at the Lutheran Church again and came home for a make-your-own nachos bar. Which was new to us this year, but is now a firmly established tradition. It was easy and tasty and went swimmingly except for the one pan of nachos that I upended in the oven.
The kids opened their gift from Grandma.

Around here the presents don't show up under the tree until everyone is asleep, except for the ones the kids give each other.

Carefully staged to avoid the eyes of any curious people popping out of bed.