Kyle is 5!

With the extra time off, we thought a trip to a water park would make Kyle's birthday extra special.

The kids swam over two days. We played games and had pizza in the hotel room.

We hosted a family party for Kyle on New Year's Eve. He got some cool new toys and had fun with his cousins.

Winter Break

The day after Christmas was unseasonably warm. The kids got to ride their new toys and we lost most of our snow.

Lucian and I both had the week off, which we spent relaxing at home, playing with new toys...

visiting the museum...

and celebrating the New Year. Claire and Lydia made signs and crowns.

Kyle was fighting a terrible cold over the break, but started to improve before he returned to school. Let's just say we had to restock the kleenex supply from Costco. Poor guy.

The break always slips by much faster than expected. While I didn't get to everything on my list, it was lovely to have the time together.

Merry Christmas

The kids slept until 7am this year, which I found rather acceptable. Spencer complained that it was still dark out and went back to be after gifts. College kids:)

Santa brought many a gift. We were all very fortunate this year.

We hosted dinner with my family on Christmas.

The kids got little scooters and Spencer got silly;)

And I will be an auntie to my new niece any day now. Can't wait to meet her!

Christmas Eve

Lucian's mom's family hosts a giant pizza party each year around Christmas. It's nice to see the very large family in one place and for all the cousins to catch up and visit. It was our kick off to the holiday this year on the 23rd.

Our niece, Lydia, performed in the Nutcracker this year, so the whole family went to a show on Christmas Eve. Lydia was an angel in the show. The group of young girls was absolutely adorable. 

After the show we gathered at Lucian's parents for the first round of food and gift opening.

We made it home in time to leave out treats for Santa, however, Kyle fell asleep in the car. Luckily big sis was up for the task. She made sure to leave a healthy orange for Santa and carrots for the reindeer.