Beginning of the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

On Friday, we welcomed the beginning of the most wonderful time of the year. After an early supper, the whole family went to a nearby Plaza for their tree lightning ceremony. Before the tree was lit up, we had the chance to meet 3 very popular princesses. Amelia was delighted to hug Anna, Elsa and Cinderella. 

Elliot wasn't really interested in the princesses but got a good seat so he can see what came next.

And then the big jolly old fella walked by and the countdown for the tree lightning ceremony was on

...3,2.1:

The kids weren't in the mood for pretty Christmas tree pictures but me and my love took a cute one:

In December we not only celebrate Jesus' birthday but also another little man's special day. Because he is helping Daddy fix things around the house a lot, uncle Lenni bought him a toolbox for his birthday. As this was a rainy Saturday and Derrick had a long list of things that needed to be fixed, we decided to surprise Elliot with another early birthday gift. And this one was a HIT! He has not put it down since and it is the first thing he talks about after waking up. 

Thank you, uncle Lenni!

While the boys were busy at home, we girls got our nails all prettied up and then went to a dance and meet and greet with Rapunzel at Barnes & Nobles. 

It was quite full but Rapunzel took her time with each child and even had a twirl with Amelia:

So blessed to call this little girl mine and spending quality time together is the best, for both of us. 

Today it was a chilly day and for tonight freezing temps are forecasted. But that didn't bother us as we bundled up and went on a family walk to the park. We took some peanuts to feed the many squirrels and they seemed happy about their special treat:

While Amelia helped me in the kitchen with making fruit salad and cooking homemade chicken noodle soup (she is great at peeling carrots and apples and cutting celery stalks), the boys worked a bit on the deck outside.

This soup was so good and just what we needed to warm up. And to stay warm, this afternoon I served hot cocoa with marshmallows and German Christmas cookies to my crew while we all watched a family favorite: The Grinch.

Best time of the year....family, food, cold weather and special celebrations.