Ahoy there, Matey

Last weekend we went to San Diego to see Ashleigh for her birthday. On Saturday, we took the boys down to the San Diego harbor to see the Star of India ship. Pirating is high on their list of things they love to do these days, so seeing a pirate-looking ship was definitely a hit! The boat in the above picture was one actually used in the movie Master and Commander.

Funny conversation

This was our conversation in the car this morning. Made me smile all day!!

Jack: Mom, can we have a baby?
Me: No
Charlie: Yeah mom, I want a baby sister.
Jack: That's not how it works, Charlie. You get what God gives you. You don't ask.
Charlie: Then I'm askin' Santa.

Thank God for kids!!!

Christmas Eve & Morning

Will there ever be another Christmas like this? It was such a joy to watch the magic through the kids' eyes. They were so excited about Santa. They could not get enough of him. We had a visit from Santa on Christmas Eve. I think Charlie would have left in Santa's sack if we would have let him. He was definitely in love!! Jack was equally as thrilled with Santa's visit, but he is a little more cautious and reserved. Charlie wears those emotions right on his sleeve.



Even the big kids got to sit on Santa's lap...



Christmas morning and the coveted Knight pop-up book. So cool, Aunt Meagan!!!



Our amazing Grandma Eileen found the impossible to find Zhu Zhu's...These things are a riot!! The kids didn't know what to expect and got such a kick out of them. Thanks, Grandma!!



Santa had the WONDERFUL idea of bringing Leapsters for both boys...Santa is a G.E.N.I.U.S. Aside from the occasional squabbling over wanting the same game at the same time, those little tiny computers have made long car rides and trips to the store quiet and peaceful. Yep, Jack and Charlie, quiet and peaceful. Amazing, I know!!



Grandpa Kruse also recorded his voice reading 'Twas the Night Before Christmas to go along with this book. He added his own verse in the end about being good boys so they didn't need thumps on the head. Jack and Charlie think this is hysterical. What a treasure!

Our annual gingerbread creation...a train and Christmas trees this year.

Although we missed spending the holidays with everyone we love back east, we are grateful for our Vegas family and friends and being able to spend these times with them.