Girl's Night at Metropolitan

I had a wonderful evening last night with the girls at Metropolitan Grill. The food was great and the company even better! Thanks to Amy for planning a fun night out and a break for everyone. A special thanks to my wonderful hubby for watching the kids. He even had to deal with a sick one at home but handled it all wonderfully.

The Happy Holidays!

Saturday evening we went to our neighbors for a wonderful holiday open house. The kids had a good time playing and stuffing themselves full of sweets and I enjoyed some conversation with the neighbors.

Sunday we headed to the Lowe's house for some Christmas cookie decorating.

It apparently wasn't exciting enough to keep Hannah and Ellie awake but the younger cousins all enjoyed making some wonderful creations. Sam's decorating skills get better each year and Ella was able to ice her own cookies this year. Of course the best part is sampling the finished products!

What Happens in Branson...

John's work had their annual Christmas party at the Hilton Convention Center in Branson. This year we had appetizers, a buffet dinner then casino night and dancing. We both had a wonderful time. We spent a lot of time playing blackjack and visiting with friends. His company provides everyone a room at the hotel after the festivities so we got to spend a kid free night. Thanks Dana and Hannah for watching the kids for us!

Border Showdown

Pausing the tailgate for a family photo.

John and Dave Ballard

Sam and Jono playing washers.

Saturday was the Missouri versus Kansas game at Arrowhead Stadium. Since the weather was beautiful and it was a day game we took Sam with us this year. Ella spent the day playing with Grandma and Grandpa. One of John's attendings from North Carolina flew into town and also went with us to the game.

We had a nice tailgating spot in the grass where we visited, cooked hamburgers and played washers. It was a good time but the game was even better. It was a little closer than I would have liked but it made for some exciting football! I thought I was going to lose my voice midway through the third quarter but it held out until the end. Sam watched and cheered the whole game too cheering for Gabbert on offense of Spoon on defense. The day was topped off with an amazing MU comeback and victory!

Pancake Feast

Enjoying the feast (notice Ella at the very end).

Sam in his Pilgrim hat.

On the last day before Thanksgiving Break Sam's class had a pancake breakfast to celebrate. Ella and I went in to help. The kids were all very excited to have something different from the normal routine. Sam was thrilled to have pancakes. He was the only kid in the whole class that asked for seconds.

Ella enjoyed being around the big kids but was very upset when she couldn't sit by her big brother. They were all sitting at their desks and she didn't quite get the idea of assigned seating. She was happy though when she got to sit at the desk of a girl who was absent and have pancakes and juice like the big kids. It was a nice morning.