Christmas Time

It is that time of year again when I insist on getting pictures with out tree, and my family happily goes along with my persuading! I loved the kids outfits this year, and Pierce fell in love with his little tie. They are getting so big, I can hardly believe it!
It is so awesome to see what little friends Allee and Pierce are becoming, and it puts a smile on my face to know that they have each other. Allee is very patient with Pierce and loves to read book after book to him. Pierce is happy to let Allee dress him up in Princess clothes and their new game is to play house.

We are so blessed to be a family.

Here are just some quick pics of this week when Santa mailed Allee and Pierce letters. They were so excited that Santa remembered to send them back a little letter and they were happy to know that once again, Santa will visit our Missouri house as well as Gra and Papa's in Utah.

Cookies

Last year we made Gingerbread cookies and it was such a suprising hit that it is one of our new traditions.

I have some ever so eager helpers who most of the time just played with a hunk of cookie dough that I gave each of them. Allee insisted that the majority of our cookies needed to be in the shape of gingerbread men, "because they are called gingerbread cookies, Mom!"

We wrote our letters to Santa, and it's interesting to see what everyone asks for, and there are usually a few suprises. Derek and I also write letters to Santa which helps us remember the magic of believeing. We decided that we were only allowed to ask for three things this year, to help us remember the three gifts Jesus was given by the Wise Men.

Allee's list included: Pink Shoes (that was a suprise), an American Girl Doll, and Lipstick. I love seeing how her handwriting is progressing every year, and this year she sounded out the words herself, too cute!

Pierce's list: Firetruck, balls, and three Mickey's. I have no idea what he expects when he says three Mickey's, but he has been saying the same think for a month now.

After writing our letters, we decorated cookies. I give each of the kids a baggie filled with frosting and they think they are so big. Secretely it is far less messy than just giving them a knife with some frosting!

Pierce insisted that I take his picture today at lunch as well and this one turned out so cute, I had to post it instead of his from last night!
They are so proud of their creations!