I almost forgot one thing! In the middle of all of the Christmas celebrations, my children also had their very first gymnastics at Electric City Gymnastics. They have both enjoyed it this year and were able to show off what they learned. Here's a few of the pictures from their demo...
Another tradition is to get together with my mom's side of the family each year. We always prepare appetizer foods and then play games. We always end up staying up way too late, eating too much, and laughing until we cry. I LOVE this time of year!!
My uncle Don with the kids...
The whole crew...
Aunt Rue, my cousins, Mitchell, Zachary, Steve, Shelly, and Uncle Don
Lauren and Danny
Aunt Lauren with the kids
The 3 Muskateers!!
Over the past 4 years, we have made it a tradition to get together with the McIlwain side of the family by meeting half-way at a local restuarant. That way no one has to cook or clean-up and we can all just enjoy each other. This year we met in Hendersonville at the Ruby Tuesday. As always we have a lot of fun!
Jarrod, Mason, Lauren and Danny
Nathan, Jamie, my dad (aka Poppi), uncle Kenny, and my Mimi
Jennifer, Susan (aka Mimi), MacKenzie, Mason, aunt Beth, and me
my Mimi and the kiddos
Last weekend we celebrate Christmas a little early with the Councills. Part of our Christmas present from them was a trip to the North Pole via the Polar Express! The kids were so mesmerized by the whole thing and we all had a great time! The train left from Bryson City, NC and ended up in the North Pole! We got hot chocolate and then a special visit from Santa where he gave out Christmas bells to all those who believe! Thanks to Mike and Judy for a great gift! Here a few pictures from our visit in Black Mountain and to the North Pole.
One of my favorite things about Christmas is seeing Christmas through a child's eyes. I think that's why children's Christmas programs are always so much fun and bring such joy to this season. Both of my children participated in two very cute Christmas programs at their schools. This year the kindergarten classes at MacKenzie's school put on a show called "Melton the Snow Man". It was very cute, and MacKenzie even had a speaking part as Prancer the Reindeer! She is usually very shy, but she did great and she is really starting to come out of her shell! Mason's program at First Baptist was great too. His class dressed up like Christmas trees and sang "Christmas Time is Here" and "We Wish You a Merry Christmas". MacKenzie also enjoyed a great little Christmas party at school. Mason's class went to visit Santa at the mall for one of their field trips. Here are some pictures from all the activities...
