The Little Gym

Today was Elle's last day of gym class for the fall session. We have been going to The Little Gym one day a week for the last four months. Elle absolutely loves going each week. Her instructor was great and let the kids explore as much as possible. It was also a parent participation class, and so I was able to be with Elle in her class. 

A few of Elle's favorite things about the class were: the parachute, jumping on the blowup toy, playing with the balls (specifically kicking the balls), popping bubbles, and getting stamps on her hands, feet, and stomach at the end of each class. She also liked jumping and hanging from the bars, doing somersaults, and walking on the balance beam. It was the highlight of her week, and I was happy to be able to have fun with her.

Boston Ballet

A group from the Boston Ballet came to Lauren's school to perform for the students the story of Little Red Riding Hood.  Wow!  I really wish that I could have been there!  This is definitely an advantage of living in a big city.... the kids are exposed to so many things (so far, more good things than bad).  But this would never have happened in, lets say, Rexburg for example.  Although, when I was little, any performing group was exciting and fun to see!

(Image from danzaballet.com)

Nor'easter Weather

Monday was a snow day for Lauren... so we spent the day in the snow! The schools were closed due to the large amount of snow expected in Boston. It was a beautiful storm! Luckily I didn't have to drive anywhere that day.

The girls and I spent the afternoon playing in the snow and making a snowman. Our good friends gave us a fun snowman kit for Christmas, which we put to use.
The resulting snow......

Curlers

Saturday night after baths and before bedtime:

Christmas and New Years Wrap-Up

What a month we had in December! It felt like our family was on vacation or "home for the holidays" for a long time. We missed seeing our family during this time.... we really, really did. But we had such a good time celebrating with new friends that we have made while in Boston.

Christmas Eve we spent with friends from our ward that stayed in town for the holidays. It was held at an AMAZING apartment in downtown Boston. If I could take a picture and copy all of the details for our own home someday, I would be thrilled. After the party we went home and thankfully Lauren remembered that we hadn't made cookies for Santa. Of course! I should have done this earlier in the day. Luckily I had bought some cookie dough and so making Santa's plate wasn't too time-consuming. Lauren's letter to Santa was so sweet. She is really so sincere (sweet but serious)!

The girls went to bed..... and then all of the magic happened. It was a late night!

Christmas morning, Brandon woke up to take pictures and I loved hearing Lauren's laughter and excitement as she rushed out of her bedroom. She was so excited! Elle knew Santa was coming and that he brings presents, but I'm not sure she really understood what that meant. But she had so much fun and loved opening the presents.

Lauren handed out the gifts, and even though we tried to take turns opening the presents, it didn't really work. The girls were too excited. Overall, there were too many toys! But the girls had so much fun. Brandon and I stayed with practical gifts this year..... snow boots, jeans, jacket, bag, perfume, watch. I don't think Santa got my letter about the new computer or new car I wanted. Maybe next year! Santa needs to earn a little bit more money.

After opening presents and lounging a bit, we were invited to another party. Another couple for the ward who have lived in Boston forever, invited another group over for a get together. They also have a great apartment, basically because they have an amazing view of Boston Common and the Public Garden. Wow! (The view in winter just doesn't give it justice)The next few days included going to the mall and making it to the movie, "Enchanted." The movie was so fun. Our time was also spent organizing places for the new toys. Our space is so limited here! We also had some friends over to dinner and managed to decorate a gingerbread house.
On Sunday, as we were leaving church, a friend asked Brandon if we had plans for New Years Eve or if we wanted to get together with them. Brandon said nope... no plans, but we should fondue! So the plans were set into action.... Four families were invited and we had such a good time. It was a nice night of really good food and fun. Our first course included a salad and then the cheese fondue with bread, pears and apples. The second course was steak, chicken, shrimp, and veggies cooked in the fondue pot of beef stock and chicken stock (other flavorings added). Our final course was dessert.... which was chocolate fondue with cookies, berries, fruit for dipping. So good! We left before midnight due to the kids being exhausted, but Brandon and I made it home to see the ball drop in New York and the Boston fireworks on TV at midnight. (PICTURES TO COME)

So today, we are back to our routines. Lauren is at school, and Brandon is at work. Elle is home with me. Sadly, she is getting a croupy cough. I guess we just wore her out this past week!