On Sunday night, we went to the botanical gardens and had hot cocoa with Santa. Then we got on the Polar Express (tram) and saw all the lights throughout the gardens. This is our second big lights show. We saw one out on Virginia Beach's boardwalk a couple of weeks ago.
(Jack's class is called the yellow ducks, so when he saw this particular display, he asked John to photograph it so he could send it to Mrs. Walters.)
Luke's ornaments this year are Santa making this rocket because he spent much of 2013 counting down and blasting off rockets.
And Mickey Mouse's clubhouse because we have watched a whole lot of Mickey in 2013. Had I known, I would have bought Dusty Crophopper as Luke's ornament this year because the kid absolutely loves Dusty. I'm pretty certain Grandma picked that one up for him though. Thank goodness for grandmas!
Jack's interest in maps was my focus of his ornaments this year. So, here is Santa checking the map.
And just a neat little globe ornament.
For Jack's teacher this year, we had this Nice List ornament made. The names are all of the kids in Jack's class. I got one for Jack too, so he can always remember preschool with his beloved Mrs. Walters.
Megan told me about reindeercam.com this morning. We spent a good part of the afternoon watching reindeer and Santa on the computer.
I've spent a good bit of time this holiday season reminding Jack and Luke of the importance of family and friends. We have taken extra time picking out thoughtful gifts, even making some ourselves. I was completely overwhelmed with excitement when Charissa and her kids brought our gifts over this afternoon. Charissa and Mike made us the most beautiful Christmas tree to put in our yard and picked out a book and rocket for the boys and some Virginia beer for John. I feel fortunate that while I am teaching the kids about thoughtfulness within our home, our friends and family are reinforcing the lessons with their kindness this holiday season.
