Charlie the Elf

This year we had an Elf from the North Pole stay with us. He arrived after Thanksgiving. Kenna named him Charlie Katrina called him Elfie and Tyler went with whatever (and Katie doesn't know the difference). They were so excited to have this Elf in our home. They did better at keeping up on their chores and tried to be on their best behavior. They were always excited to wake up in the morning to see what the Elf had done that night while they were sleeping. The girls adored Elf and took turns holding him tight at night while falling asleep. It was hard for the elf to escape their arms each night but he managed to get away too play. One night Kenna left her Lego's out and he had fun building with them. One morning he left a trail of ornaments on the ground and was found at the top of the Christmas tree. We even discovered that he is quite the ladies man. He was found having tea with Minnie Mouse, Tinker Bell, Ariel and Jenny (Kenna's doll). He also got all tied up in moms garland that was decorating the hand rail going up the stairs. It looked like he was swinging from it - like a vine. Silly Elf. On Christmas eve he had to return to the North Pole but left a letter with his report of what he observed in our home and told them that he thought they deserved to be on the nice list and left each of the kids a present to open. It was lot's of fun having Charlie the Elf or Elfie in our home. We look forward to seeing him next year.

Oh Christmas Tree...

Day after Thanksgiving we went and picked out a Christmas tree. We didn't cut down our own tree this year like we did last year. We just did a quick and easy trip to Home Depot. That way we could spend more time at home together having hot chocolate, decorating the tree and house, and watching a Christmas movie. We watched Elf. The kids love that movie. We also enjoyed a few games of Rock Band. It was a fun day. Here are a few pics...

KATE

Decorating the tree

Rock Band

Katie found her thumb

Thanksgiving

Although we are away from our families we are so blessed to have good friends here that feel like family. Like last year, this year we got together with our group of friends from Arizona that moved here for work. We all got together at the Peterson's and had a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner. There was soooo much food! We got STUFFED!!! It was a great day. What more can I say? Here are some photos I stole from a friends blog...