Joy To The World!

Winter Wonderland

We are going to have a white Christmas even if it doesn't really snow on the actual day. There's just too much snow with no where to go.

We wish you a very, merry Christmas!

Thanksgiving in California - Highlights

Here is what we did in California. Mommy tried to put it in order, but failed miserably!

So, we had fun with our cousins.

ALL of them.

We had a fabulous time with Grandma Kim.

We did things in CA that we can't do in Iowa - like play outside comfortably at the end of November, feed ducks, and see parrots.

We acted like monkeys!

We explored God's creation!

Fed more ducks!

Played with babies, namely Silas!

We lauged - A LOT!!

Played with toys!

Played with dad - that's a must anywhere we are!

Took posed pictures.

AHHH - of course the beach!!!

But this time we rode bikes and scooters - Thanks to Papa and Oma!

We hugged and loved!

We did more laughing!

And more laughing!

And we ate popcorn and watched a movie.

And of course our annual Disneyland trip. We love to see the castle all decked out!

The Disney tree is always the best!

This year we went to Ariel's Grotto to dine with royalty (this was our 3rd trip).

We love all the memories we make in California!

Is Mongi from Brooklyn?

We've always thought that Monica sounds like she's from Brooklyn. Now she's singing Beastie Boys!

Keeping Each Other Accountable

This is what Owen and Ayva do during quiet time. They are each given an appropriate reading level book, go to the top of Owen's loft bed and read to each other.

They aren't the only ones benefiting from this!

Little Tumbler and Ballerina

Monica has been so excited to start tumbling and ballet. But as the big day came she was a little apprehensive. After a few tears and about 20 minutes she got into the swing of it. And when asked if she wanted to go to ballet, she grabbed the teacher's hand with no hesitation (and without saying goodbye to daddy or mommy) and went off to class. I guess the anxiety is gone.

Sista-Sista!

We're sistas and we have each other!

PS We love our brother too!

Our Family Vacation

Falls Park in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Three little indians looking at Crazy Horse.

Too close for comfort - right after this shot a mama buffalo chased Owen.

Three little angels at Hell's Dome.

Three smart little Americans at Mount Rushmore!

ALL ABOARD an 1880 train!

In the back of our cabin.. 3 professional travelers...

happy traveler...

helpful and crazy traveler...

sweet and sick traveler.

Three good kids in the Badlands.

Looking out at Storm Lake.

Almost looked like the ocean...

... made us excited for our upcoming trip to CA!!