Ireland's School Holiday Program

Now that Ireland is at Trinity, she is the one that gets to participate in their holiday program.  She was so excited and had been practicing the songs for a long time! She was so happy to be on the alter and waved her little heart out.

We love her teacher, Mrs. Oliver!

Nanny and Papa H came to watch!

We were so proud of her! 

Toots is Back and We've Visited Santa... a few times

Our elf, Toots, is back!  On December 1st, he showed up with LOTS of goodies.  He had a note for them along with 25 Christmas books, PJs that said Santa's Helper for each of them, new Christmas cups and their advent calendars.  Whew!

Back in November, we happened to be at Home Depot and they had a letter writing station for letters to Santa.  They each wrote to him.  The day after Toots arrived, they BOTH got letters from the North Pole for Santa! 

We visited Santa three times this year.  I don't know if you're wondering, but each time, my kids added to their list.  (When we were home in Springfield last weekend, my mom wanted to take the kids to see Santa.  I declined saying I don't think Santa can afford a fourth trip from us.) 

Our first trip to see the big guy was our annual visit to the Santa at Bass Pro.  I love looking at the progression of how they've grown up and reacted to Santa.  Last year, Ireland was NOT a fan.  This year, she started off a little uneasy, but came through in the end.  She was fascinated by his soft jacket.  On this trip, Ireland asked for Shopkins and Cohan asked for a super fast remote control car.

They love playing the games after seeing Santa at Bass Pro.  

Bucko would have been proud of Cohan's bow and arrow form.  

Our second time to visit Santa was at Ireland's dance recital.  Ireland was still unsure of Santa, but loved "Mrs. Santa."  

Our third trip (and hopefully last) to see Santa was brunch with Santa at our country club.  The whole Watson crew was there.  The kids behaved perfectly and we loved seeing them all visit Santa.  

Quinn's first trip to see Santa!!!

All the Watson cousins

On this trip. Cohan asked for a Paw Patroler and Ireland asked for Doc McStuffin's big clinic.

Merry Christmas!!!  

Cookie Decorating

With holidays come lots and lots of traditions.  One that we started with our kids a long time ago was holiday baking and gingerbread making.  Last year, we were still at our old house. They've gone from needing lots of help, to wanting to do it all themselves.   

Normally, with gingerbread houses, we do one together.  This year, however, Ireland had her heart set on a Frozen Ice Castle she wanted, so they did two separate ones.  Cohan had the help of his neighbor buddy, Eli, and Ireland had Scott's help.

Once the kids were done, we began making cookies and goodies!  

They ate quite a bit along the way... 

While waiting for cookies to cool, we played LOTS of board games.

Riggs was right there, waiting for any little crumb...

Last week we delivered lots of goodies to our works and old and new neighbors.

Ireland's Christmas Dance Recital

To say that Ireland is full of spunk is an understatement.  She is sass, sugar and spice and everything else all rolled in to one.  My children are complete opposites, Cohan is my rule follower with a heart of gold.  Ireland is my rule breaker and a walking tornado, and I wouldn't change a thing about her.  My mom always says, "Heidi, you deserve her."  She keeps us on our toes, makes us laugh daily and is everything girly.  

Last week, she had her first Christmas Dance Recital at her new dance company she joined this year.  Her spunk sure shines through in all she does, and this recital was no different.          

She is the one to the left of the little boy.  Front and center for all to enjoy!

After her performance, Santa & Mrs. Claus were even there!