A Very Merry Christmas (pt 1)

We must have all been  on Santa's nice list this year for there seemed to be lots of wrapping paper being ripped open and flung about on Christmas eve, morning, afternoon and beyond.  The best presents were certainly not wrapped in paper, but in smiles.
 

Bethlehem's Best

Before we had kids I remember watching other people's children, particularly at church.  Waving palm branches, going up front for the children's moment or singing in the children's choir.  The longing ( or perhaps it was just plain envy) I felt to share in the experience of their proud parents would often bring me to tears.  

Well this past Sunday was my turn!!  And the tears that flowed were those of pure pride and joy.  We have a wonderful music director who led 52 kids (ages 4 - 5th grade) in a production of Bethlehem's Best.  The older children had solos and speaking parts, the younger ones were part of the angel chorus.  Cassidy and Carter sat quietly when they were supposed to and sang excitedly when they were supposed to.  It was a wonderful performance and no doubt the first of many proud moments!

JBS



Holiday sights and sips

This weekend we visited Easton Town Center to see take in all the holiday sights and some holiday drinks.  We saw the nutcrackers, lights on the two big Christmas Trees and all of the buildings as well as the nativity and big toy train set up.  The kids loved the lights and their hot chocolate. 

BSS

Easy as 1, 2, 3...

Whether it is Cass counting to 10 in Mandarin or Carter practicing kicks and blocks from his martial arts class, both kids are learning a lot and enjoying their Chinese classes.


Centennial

100 years is a long time, but this is how old my grandma "Nanny" Shelton would have been today.  It is hard to believe she has been gone for 7 years.  I still miss hearing her stories.  Whether it was one of her trips around the world or just to the grocery story, she could recount everything that happened in amazing detail.  She was an amazing woman.  Happy 100th Nanny!

Before and After

After seeing Santa on Saturday, we ventured out to find our tree for the season.  After selecting one, the kids enjoyed some hot chocolate and then we took it home and proceeded to decorate it.  The kids helped with hanging the ornaments on the big tree and decorated their own mini trees as well. 



 

Santa Claus is coming to town

The kids were excited to go to our annual Chinese group Christmas party so that they could meet Santa and tell him what they wanted.  Unlike two years ago at this event when Carter cried when taken up to meet the big man, the kids have the process down pat now and feel right at home making their "requests."  Before getting to see Santa, the kids heard a presentation from a Chinese author and got to make some crafts as well.  

Cass with her friend, Grace