2013

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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.

The Christmas Program

The big kids were in the church Christmas program this year. It was a perfect production. There were verses said by different kids punctuated by carols. They had four weeks of rehearsals during Sunday school.

My angel was being a bit of a stinker about having her picture taken.

 Nora had a speaking part and did well, no rushing or mumbling.

Everyone in the play did a great job and it was such fun to watch.We are thankful for the time and effort put in by the adults to make this happen.

Tamping down the leaves

We got a new garbage can for yard waste and the girls helped Mark fit more leaves in.

It was such a warm day. It's hard to believe that it's mid-December.

Making cinnamon rolls

Cinnamon rolls are a fun Advent Sunday breakfast. Henry is spreading the filling for the giant ones we will bake tomorrow.

Update: They were good, but the middle is hard to get cooked all the way. A cinnamon wreath might be better.

Joulutontut

We received a package with handmade Christmas elves from Finland. We love them!