Famous

I've had fun dabbling in the Etsy business. I'm hardly a successful seller, but it's a fun challenge for me while I'm at home with the kids to think up and create items to sell. 

A most exciting and unexpected event happened from early November through mid-January. My Shave and Play Barbie white elephant gift was spotlighted on a website called, "Thisiswhyimbroke.com." It increased traffic to my shop like crazy and I made substantially more sells than my norm. 

Every day over the holidays I was in a rush, and up to my arms in Barbie hair, making these stupid dolls! Even Dave had to be hired as my mail manager. I wanted to call it quits and just relax, but Dave kept encouraging me. We kept on keeping on and it was even KIND OF fun (in retrospect). The sales have since died, but it was a fun little memory in 2015 for us!

Kate's Christmas Performances

Kate joined Alpine Community Theater for kids. She's had a fun year singing and performing on stage. And we've loved watching her do what she does best.

She performed at both the Dickens Festival and the Festival of Trees over the holidays. It was a busy few weeks of practices and performances, but it all paid off. Both sets of Grandparents were able to come watch Miss Kate as she glowed on the stage! We're so proud of our little star!

(one the gingerbread displays at the Festival of Trees)

Christmas

Well, Max's first Christmas began with him waking up at 10:30am. But, boy was he in a good mood once he awoke from his long winter's nap!

Santa did well. He always frets that he doesn't get enough, or the kids won't be into their toys, but all the gifts were a hit. Cole maxed out on Star Wars-themed legos and toys, and Kate checked off Shopkins and Mi World toys from her list. Max got his walker that he immediately took to and enjoyed practicing his walking. 

We let the kids' toys lay out in the basement for most of the week to be played with and enjoyed; that was probably my favorite part about Christmas!

Another great part was watching the two older kids deliver 12 Days of Christmas Gifts each night. The image of Kate ringing the bell, with Cole nervously waiting at the bottom of the steps, the instant scurrying to the back of the house, and then the two of them trudging through knee-deep snow in snow boots, with dogs barking wildly at them in the darkness of the night...those are some memories I hope to never forget!