Merry Christmases!

So, this year was full of many present opening events. We had our Christmas with John's family the weekend before Christmas. Then the kids opened their presents from us before we left town on the 22nd. We had Christmas with just my immediate family on the 24th, they had presents from Santa the morning of the 25th, and then presents with my extended family the afternoon of the 25th. The kids enjoyed themselves and couldn't wait to begin the next round. I enjoyed getting to see and spend time with everyone. I am lucky to have such a wonderful family.

John's birthday also got thrown in there with dinner on the plaza the 23rd and a dinner at my parents on the 24th. No birthday pics this year but it was a nice time.

Sam's turn to party

The 22nd of December was Sam's classroom party. There are so many involved parents in Sam's school that if you don't sign up early on Meet the Teacher in August you don't get to help with the party. All parents are welcome to attend though, so that is what I did. I enjoyed watching the kids participate in all the activities the room moms had set up for them. He had a good time!

Medley Family Christmas

Yesterday we celebrated Christmas with John's family. We decided to make it an easy low-key affair. We all went to Dawn and Ellie's where gifts were exchanged for the kids. I think everyone got some presents that they really enjoyed. Then it was off to Lamberts for dinner. Kevin entertained the kids while we waited to be seated. Sam was especially enthralled with his riddles and jokes. The food was good and the company even better. It was a nice time with family!

A Frosty for Scrooge

Ella with Frosty the next morning.

Sam that night with Frosty (and someone looking from the window).

So our neighbors all decided to put up Christmas lights on their houses, trees, etc. this year. Many also have wreaths, small trees and other decorations. These things make our house look a little lonely with only its two Christmas wreaths. So the other night while we were at a party two of our neighbors put this Frosty up in our yard. They said they wanted to help us not look like such Scrooges. The kids absolutely loved the surprise! Next year we will definitely have to step up the decorations!

Sing Merrily

Can you see my little mouse in the front row waving to Mommy?

Having snacks at the Christmas party with her friend Alexis.

Ella's school had their Christmas Program and party on Thursday. I was a little worried that our shy Ella would not sing a word in front of the church full of parents and other family members. She definitely proved me wrong. She was singing, dancing, swaying and having a good time performing! It was a lot of fun to watch.

Basketball

Sam is once again playing basketball at the YMCA. This session and hopefully the next his coach is Monte Hardge who used to play for Mizzou. There is nothing better than a former Tiger teaching you to play ball. Sam's team had a lot of progress to make but I feel like they really learned a lot. They even won their last game!

Sam's basketball skills and competitiveness have really improved this last year. There is no more worrying about if he is paying attention and trying to get him to be more aggressive. Now we are trying to get him to be a little less aggressive since his overeagerness is leading to some fouls. Hopefully soon he will find that perfect balance. I have enjoyed watching him this season.