Christmas Eve

A BIG family debut at the Children's Christmas mass...

Mary kept her cool (even though I think this was her only smile at the alter.)

The boys sang their hearts out in the choir (back, left behind the tall kid in the suit.)

And our traditional PJ picture...

along with a silly shot!

Merry Christmas to you all, and to all a good night!

Tis the season - Round #3

They finally made it!  3rd time was a charm on visiting Austin's Trail of Lights, even though 3 out of 4 of them would NOT recommend it.  They got there 2 hours before opening, the wait time at nearby restaurants was too long, the rush of people was close to a stampede, and then returned to the parking lot only to find the truck blocked by other vehicles!  

But the videos of Fran and her excitement are priceless.

Tis the Season - Round #2

After choir practice we decided to attack Austin's Trail of Lights.  After being absent the past 2 years due to city budget cuts, the lights are back and supposedly better than ever.  After sitting in traffic for close to an hour only to see the line of 300+ people waiting to board a shuttle to then take you to the Trail of Lights, we circled the parking lot and drove home (it was already 7:00)...this was our Trail of Lights for the night!  

The kids were disappointed and we might try one more time.  This review on Yelp is a great warning:  

Do you love crowds? Screaming children? Lots of espanol? Having your heels clipped by agressive strollers? People who can't follow directions? Lots and lots and lots and lots and then a lot more people stopping to take pictures of displays they will never look at again? Traffic? You are in luck! The Trail of Lights is perfect for you!   Just keep in mind, you get what you pay for and the Trail of Lights is free.

Tis the Season - Round #1

Today we crammed in a Santa's lap visit and the Trail of Lights in Lakeway after school.  Tis the season for still believing!

Feeding our Friends

Last night we went downtown to the First Baptist Church for the Mobile Loaves & Fishes annual Christmas dinner.  Our family was in charge of passing out bread to all of our hungry, homeless neighbors while they enjoyed a warm meal.  

9 years

Happy Birthday to the greatest 9 year old I know!  May your music memories begin.

One of my Favorite Traditions!

7 years and still going...the lovely Gingerbread House Tradition!  With crazy warm temps we decided to go BIG this year and invite more friends.  19 gingerbread houses and 24 kids easily fit in our back yard.   As always, more candy and frosting were consumed than used but the kids had a blast and great memories were made!