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Santa Sighting!

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The last week of school before a long holiday break is always busy, but also seems to drag on for-ever. Lots of things to wrap up at school (tests, theme days, recitals) and work (um, work!) before we can settle in for a long winter's nap.

My work had fun events this week, including a team holiday party where we played a chaotic white elephant game (I ended up with a game the whole family can play...hooray!) There was also a company-wide holiday decorating contest, as well as an ugly sweater contest (complete with fresh baked chocolate-chip cookies and milk/hot chocolate.) I am so impressed by all of the groups that decorated their areas...this is the "Patterson Express" complete with lights and sounds, and a crossing arm (not pictured.) And this one didn't even get a prize...so imagine how amazing the other ones were!


G had a fun, themed week, plus he learned all about how other countries celebrate Christmas and various winter holidays. He came home from school with a bag of holiday crafts, and the cutest plate he made for us (it's train-themed...seems to be a recurring theme in our lives!)

Sporting a new hat from Aunt Steph on "favorite hat day" at school


Ava also had a fun week...three tests (wheeee!), and mini-baton performance on Tuesday night. Plus, they had "house" day on Friday, which means there was barely any school work that was done, and she got to swim for fun during her 1st hour.

In rare moments, they play together so well!


Both kids are clearly looking forward to being at home for the next 2 weeks...lucky them! I am off of work through Jan 1, and then Scott took time off to be at home with them for the rest of the week after the New Year.

We had fun with a filter...creepy and weird!



G is particularly terrifying in this one


Last night we were able to check off the last few items on the holiday bucket list...we went and saw Santa (G was so excited; he brought Santa a homemade gift, and gave him a huge hug! Plus, just like in years past, he came home with a bag of toys from Santa!) Ava decided she didn't want to sit with Santa (sniff) but Santa's helper had a gift for her, regardless. I love that Santa is so close to home, there is usually just a small line, and we don't have to battle mall traffic to meet up with the jolly fat man. This works out perfect for us!


After chatting up Santa, we headed out to dinner, and then drove around the city looking at Christmas lights. We only saw a few amazing light displays, but it was great to be out of the house on a Saturday night as a family. We need to do more of that! Find more adventures and fun places to explore...

Tonight we're hosting my parents and my aunt Steph (here from NY) for dinner, and then the rest of the week is full of holiday activities...Christmas Eve with family, Christmas day with the four of us, and then movies, shopping, happy hours with friends, and more!


Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas!

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