Getting ready....

for the big holiday marathon that is quickly approaching. It's just two days to go until Christmas Day.  We've been doing our best to get into the holiday spirit.  Here's the picture proof:

The tree and decorations went up the first weekend in December....and are a little different this year.  We are trying the tree against the inside wall of our living room in stead of in our book corner. So far, it's been OK.  Our small living room is just plain small, no matter how you move stuff around.  But it's pretty and very Christmasy in here.  I put my mom and dad's old time ornaments in some candle holders this year on the mantel.  I like being able to see them every day.

I was happy to participate in the annual Special People's Cruise again this year, with Diede and her yacht club.  I drove the bus elfs up to Everett to help them board the buses early and hopefully get the groups put together a little smoother this year. 

 Diede and one of the boat riders, all dressed in holiday cheer. 

 That evening, we joined our dear friends the Martineau's at Factoria Mall to celebrate Jessica's birthday.  We stopped to see Santa (well, Derick and I did) and had a nice dinner all together at Red Robbin. 

Jeremy and I attended a fun holiday party, hosted by long time friends.  It's a ruckus of a gift exchange and we always enjoy the laughter, drinks, and dancing.  It was a nice date night, and the kids enjoyed spending some time with their cousins.

I did a little baking this year and did my best to give alot of it away.  Of course, we've gotten lots of yummy treats in return.  :)  I am going to have to get in a few extra work outs next week!

 SNOW!!!  Too bad it didn't last very long....but it was fun for a few snow balls before school!

Darla and I went to her friend Hank's house for a gingerbread play date.  We both had a lot of fun.

On Derick's last day of school before the break, they held a family sing a long where parents got to join the kids and teachers to sing some holiday songs together.  It was fun, but I was disappointed to not be able to see the kids better.  To capture this photo, I had to sneak up to the front of the room!  At least I wasn't alone.....there were quite a few other parents doing the same thing as I was.  :)

We've watched some fun holiday movies this year.  Now that the kids are getting older they can enjoy the classics with us (like Home Alone, A Charlie Brown Christmas, and Santa Clause is coming to town) and some newer ones like Disney's Prep and Landing team. 

I think things are pretty much ready, just one more food shop to do and then we'll feast with family for three days.  Presents are wrapped and Santa's letters have been sent and returned messages received.  The kids are counting down the days and Jeremy and I are doing our best to be patient.  There's an interesting vibration of energy as the anticipation of new toys comes to it's peak. 

We wish all our friends and family a very blessed holiday!