Homemade Christmas

Because Ian and I are taking the girls to Europe in June, we need to save as much money as possible. For that reason we decided to do as many homemade gifts as possible. I was a little stressed about getting everything done in time, but in the end this Christmas was one of the best I can ever remember. As someone with an affinity for the arts I very much enjoyed the creative process that went along with each of the gifts that I made and I am already looking forward to doing homemade Christmas again next year. Now that I know how much I enjoy it and want to do it again I can start much earlier and not be so stressed about getting everything done in time. I did an oil painting for Ian. Aven made pinch pots for everyone, I made scrapbook style collages and framed them for all of our parents, Ian made me delicious cupcakes, and I made our Christmas cards with materials I already had. I am in no way trying to be braggy, I just wanted to share how much I enjoyed removing myself from the consumer craze. It really did bring much more fulfillment, joy, and happiness to the season.

Making snow angels on Christmas Eve

2012 Winter Program

Last night Aven and Etta had their Winter program. The theme was "snow", so all of the songs were related to snow, ice, and all of magical things that happen when snow and ice abound. Etta's class kicked off the program by "dancing" to "Ice, Ice, Baby" while wearing bling onesies that were custom screen printed by her teacher, Ireland. Aven's class performed "The Winter Pokey", "5 Little Snowmen", and combined with the four year old class for "Let it Snow". Aven did better than she ever has before, singing a little bit and remembering a few dance moves. I just really appreciate all the work these wonderful teachers do to put on a show.

Etta, getting in touch with her inner gangsta'.

Aven kind of performing "5 Little Snowmen".

She was a little too entranced by the artificial flame she was holding during "Let it Snow" to get much singing done.

Aven and her AWESOME teacher, Heidi.

And now, enjoy the wonderful craziness of a preschool performance:

December Festivities

Visiting with Santa. Aven asked for a dollhouse. I'm pretty sure Etta would be happy with a fist-full of beard.

Baking cookies with Lucy Grandma. Aven really got into it, especially the part where you sprinkle flour on the dough.

Zoolights with Auntie Em and Lucy Grandma.

More Zoolights

Riding a praying mantis at the zoo.

Christmas Dresses

I found some super-cute Christmas dresses for the girls at Kid to Kid for eight dollars each. I love that store. Now enjoy some super-cute Pictures of them by the Christmas tree: