All I Want for Christmas...

Ella has managed to lose both of her front teeth within the last month.  She was really excited because all of the kids at her school that are missing their two front teeth get to stand up and sing the famous song during their all school sing along.  She is loving all the attention with people asking if she wants her two front teeth for Christmas.  

Beautiful Ballerina

Ella had her first dance recital a few weeks ago.  She was super excited to get to perform on the big stage.  They have been practicing their ballet routine for over a month now and the girls were ready.  Ella did an excellent job and looked absolutely adorable.  Dance has definitely taken over as her favorite activity.  

This is the pose she does at the end of her dance. 

All smiles and ready to go perform. 

Away in a Manger

Sam with Santa and the elves. 

Waiting for her turn to perform.

Cutest kids in the pageant! 

Last Friday night, our church put on it's annual Christmas Pageant.  Both kids wanted to participate again this year.  Sam played the part of Sam.  In the play there are kids from modern times who are talking to Santa and asking questions about Jesus.  Sam was one of those kids.  He did a great job!  I think he spoke the most clearly of all the kids and he was so excited to receive many compliments after the show.  


Ella was a shepherd in the play.  Her part was not too big, which she was disappointed about, but they give the larger speaking roles to the older kids.  She looked adorable though in her outfit and performed well.  My mom and dad were able to make it to the play this year.  We were so excited to have them there to watch the performance and enjoy the reception with us afterwards.  

Teacher Appreciation

I am in charge of teacher and staff appreciation for my kids' school this year.  It is a much more time consuming job than I realized when I accepted it.  I never realized how many staff members are at the school.  But, I am happy though to recognize the people who are spending the day with my children and have such a tremendous impact on their lives.  

Each month I plan something to recognize their hard work and dedication. For December, each staff member usually gets a small monetary donation from our PTA.  This year we decided to make cute gift bags to hold the donation.  It took a lot longer than expected but I think the bags turned out great!  I might have to do this project again for something on a smaller scale.  

All of the completed bags. 

An up close look at our finished project! 

The Magic Tree

One Christmas tradition in Columbia is to stop by The Magic Tree.  The tree has over 44,000 lights and it is fun to watch the faces of young and old as they enjoy watching the lights change colors.  The kids and I enjoy driving by and stopping for a few pictures.  

Ella and Sam peeking around the tree!