Kara's 4th Birthday

Dora the Explorer was the theme this year. The girls each colored their own set of binoculars and then went on a "puzzle hunt", using maps to find puzzle pieces around the house. Then they got to put the puzzle together, and we had cupcakes for the treat. After opening presents, they "walked the plank" blindfolded and then played "Dora, Boots, Swiper" (variation of "Duck, Duck, Goose"). Kara loved having so many girls at her party; we were glad everyone made it! Happy birthday, Kara!

Stock Show and Rodeo

Well, we didn't see any stock shows or watch any rodeos, but we had a good visit to the grounds. It would have been even better if it hadn't been quite so windy and chilly that day, but the kids still had fun.





The petting zoo was a big hit.





The deer liked to nibble on jackets... a lot.


Brian liked the kangaroos best.


Ice cream cones on such a cold day? They were free, so... heck yeah!






Inflatables



Push-ups in exchange for free junk from the Army



Kara earned a "really pretty necklace."

Zoo

We went to the zoo last month, and we rode the miniature train there. The kids had a good time. It was a lot of walking, though. We'd only brought the single stroller for Joshua, and Kara was quite tired by the time we called it quits. Our season passes expire this month, so we wanted to go a couple more times before they did.

I know he looks constipated, but Joshua really is saying "cheese."

Happy Birthday, Angela!

Today is my older sister's birthday. She lives with her husband and 4 kids in Arizona, so we unfortunately don't get to see them often enough. Angela is a great sister, and I'm glad that we're friends. Hope your day is wonderful!

December Catch-up

What a wonderfully busy holiday season it's been. I have now finally found time to update the blog. :) Posts are below.

Decorating the Tree

They both did a good job helping hang up the ornaments for an FHE activity.

This is for You, Papa.

Joshua and Kara sporting their new shirts that Papa Vance got for them in Germany

USAA Children's Christmas Activity

We went to Brian's work to visit Santa (but not pay the exorbitant price for pictures with him) and watch an Amelia Bedelia performance (which was only OK). There was also a magician doing tricks in the hallway, and that was fun to watch. (Except for, in the middle of a card trick, someone bumped his table and half his cards fell onto the floor. I didn't see who accidentally bumped it, but it MIGHT have been Kara, since she was standing the closest. Oops.) The kids loved seeing (and posing with) the balloon creations.

Frosty the Snowman



Winnie the Pooh


Joshua saw a big candy cane made of balloons and immediately ran over to it. He knew what to do...


A poinsettia Christmas tree (gotta love Joshua's "huh?" face)

Santa!

We went and saw Santa at the nearby elementary school, where they also had snacks and crafts (all provided by our HOA). I think he was a little too scary for Joshua.


Remember last year, though?

USAA Christmas Party

Some friends watched the kiddos so that we could go to the annual work party. They had yummy food and two live bands. It was a fun date.



Lonestar


Styx


cool ice sculptures