Fresh Cut...

Christmas Tree! That's what we get EVERY year. It used to be a matter of discussion every year that went something like this:

Me: "Can we go buy an artificial tree, babe?"

Clint: "What? No, I always had a live tree and LOVE the smell of a fresh Christmas Tree! There's nothing like it!"

Me: "Oh yeah, there is! You know Gold Canyon sells a candle and the scent is called Christmas tree. I'll be happy to light one every day and that way I don't have to deal with the pine needles, and getting my lights just perfect on the tree, and go to every Home Depot and Lowes around to find the "perfect" tree!"

Clint: "It wouldn't be the same. It's what I always grew up with and just love it!"

So how do you argue with "good memories". And so after all these years we've spent hours (literally) finding the perfect Tree. This year though, I saw a sample tree and a sign that Costco would be selling Noble Fir's, just what I like. I called them the day they got them in and they told me that you don't get to look through the tree's and find the one you like, rather you buy it, pull up and they throw it in the back of the car. (Basically a drive- through service.) The best part: they "guaranteed" that all their tree's look like the display! So I sent Clint on his way and he came home with a beautiful perfect looking tree. Now I know some of you would argue that half the fun is finding the "perfect" tree on your own, but for me this set up is perfect! And if you're wondering if the tree was just like the display...it sure was!

Annual Standage Party

On Sunday was our annual Standage Christmas party. This is when all Clint's Mom's family gets together to enjoy time together, food, and fun! We always look forward to this as well as the kids. We enjoy seeing family that otherwise we probably wouldn't see all year and the kids love the trains and spending time with cousins. Clint's uncle has an amazing collection of trains and an amazing track throughout his yard. He opens it up to the public and this year seemed to be extra crowded. We had a lot of fun and thanks to the Sirrines for hosting and to the "real Santa" for letting each kid sit and talk to you!

Caden checking out the trains!

Archer was good for the group shot, but wouldn't sit by himself!

Is is just my kids, or do yours do the same thing??? Every time they tell Santa what they want it changes! Caden said something like a train; which was the first I'd heard. All the trains outside must have influenced that thought!

Mrs. Claus Holiday Party

Our neighborhood had a fun Mrs. Claus party about a week ago. They had hot cocoa and doughnuts and some music for the kids to dance to. Lexi enjoyed making snowflakes and Caden played with friends on the playground. Mrs. Claus was there and told each of the kids that she'd be sure to let Santa know what they want and that they've been good this year.

brotherly love

Archer was standing at the couch and whining non-stop up to Caden, who was sitting on the couch. I decide to put Archer on the couch. As you can see by his face that's all he wanted. He wanted a little bonding time watching cartoons with his older brother. It only lasted about 30 seconds, but was cute while it did!