The "Finding Book"

Michael has this Christmas book...we've affectionately dubbed it the "Finding Book". It's an eye spy sort of book where you find holiday items hidden within the pages. He's actually really good at finding all the items. He LOVES this book.

Wrestling with Papa

Wrestling is one of Michael's favorite things to do and he was able to get in a "match" with Papa Jim!

Rub a Dub Dub...Justin's in the Sink!

Doesn't everyone have a picture of a baby taking a bath in a sink?! They are the best! Here is Justin enjoying a bath at the Wadena house. The sink was a PERFECT fit for him and he enjoyed every minute of it!

Nana is Here!

Nana arrived into town for the holidays and the boys were so excited to see her! Though they look a bit disinterested in the book she's reading to them don't they?? :)

Michael & His Reindeer

Just as we were pulling up to our house this evening...Michael noticed that our neighbors had put out their lighted reindeer. "Oh Mommy, can I go see them? I'll go over there and you take a picture of me." he says. What did Mommy say..."OF COURSE!" :)

Jaguars vs. Steelers

My Jacksonville Jaguars were too tough for Kevin's favorite team the Pittsburgh Steelers. They played today and the Jaguars prevailed! Even Justin and his Big Ben jersey weren't enough to help pull out a victory. Go Jags!

My other favorite team the Vikings are actually becoming quite fun to watch...now that they are on a winning streak. Do we dare say playoffs?? :)

The Damm Boys Movie

O' Christmas Tree

We decorated the tree tonight with help this year from Michael!! He loved taking the ornaments out of the box and putting them on the tree. I had to help a bit so that we didn't have all the ornaments on the lower 1/3 of the tree! :)

P.S. Do you like my "artistic" shot of the tree?! Seriously, after 2 years of having my digital camera you'd think I'd be able to figure out how to take a picture in low light. I still think it looks pretty cool though.

We Saw Santa!

This Sunday morning we headed to Al Baker's in Eagan to enjoy a yummy brunch and to see Santa Claus! Michael was so happy to tell Santa what he wanted for Christmas and was thrilled to be able to ring the bells for the Jingle Bells song. Justin was more perplexed when visiting Santa but at least he didn't break out and start crying. Whew! :)

It was a perfect setting to see Santa and we look foward to making it an annual tradition - thanks to my good friend Terri for the invitation to join them!

The First Big Snowfall

Yesterday we welcomed in our first big snowfall of the season. It hit hard and fast and dumped at least 4-6 inches on us here in the metro area. I love watching the first snowfall ... there is something almost tranquil about it. Plus, it really helps you get into the holiday spirit!

Today Michael and I went outside to shovel and play while Justin took his morning nap. (Kevin was at the Vikings game but not to worry...I left plenty more shoveling for him to do when he got home. Ha!) We had a blast and our little neighbor boy, Colin (2 years old), came over to play too. They had fun throwing snowballs, making snow angels and just running around. It was great fun and I know Michael will be anxious to get out in it again.