We Believe!

Merry Christmas from the Far North! It's a cold and pretty dismal day but it's certainly feeling like Christmas around these parts. We are finally accumulating a little snow, not that I long for it but it does make it feel a little more holiday-like.

On Sunday, our local Boys & Girls club sponsored a Fun with Santa day. The girls were able to go visit with the REAL Santa. There were projects to make and tables with gifts to purchase. There was lots of goodies to try and fun to be had by everyone.

Cali had only one other experience with Santa ( a helper) this year and she really didn't like it. I wasn't prepared that time so I wasn't to upset not getting photos. I had high hopes on Sunday though and the angels were looking down on us!

Right when we got there we took a number and waited for our turn. Cali looked on while we waited eyeballing the big guy. I was getting nervous, wondering if she was really going to go through with it. I had been preparing her for weeks. She told me she was going to ask Santa to bring her presents. When I asked what kind of presents, she always responded with a color; red ones or green ones.

Well our turn came quickly. Cassi went first. I am unsure what she asked for but she seemed to enjoy chatting with him. Cori went next and made it quite clear that she was taking part in this for my benefit only! I'd had a rough couple days previously; I think she was feeling bad for me. Whatever works I guess.





















Cali went up last. She was a little apprehensive but up she went. She got on his lap and took a couple of pictures. Then I asked her if she was going to tell Santa what she wanted for Christmas. She brightened up so much, glared right in his eyes and said "I want Dora Fairytale. You bring me Dora Fairytale?"





















For a while now, she has seen a Dora commercial on TV and when she does she says " I want that. I love it, my favorite." The funny thing is I didn't plan on getting it for her for Christmas. Now I've been looking for it. I told my older two Santa better find it because I can't. Of course, I am sure Santa will come through. I AM A BELIEVER!

Merry Christmas from Alaska.

Merry Christmas from Cassi the Angel

Cassi's long anticipated debut was last night. The annual Christmas performance was held with almost 200 1st and 2nd graders giving one fantastic performance.



Cassi and her friend Lara were chosen to be angels this year. It was Cassi's first ever special solo-like part in a school show. The had to sing 2 short verses of a song titled "Snow is falling".

Even though Cori did not perform in this particular show she was asked to be a greeter and pass out programs. She was very festive and full of spirit. It was a good job for her.
She also spent some time singing with Grandpa and her friend Emily during intermission. It was very fun.





















Since Cassi's part of the performance came a little later in the night, we had some time to waste in the corridor. While we were waiting we took a couple photos with friends. Two of them showed up unplanned in identical dresses. On the left is Cierra and on the right is Ericka.



















After the performance we took a few photos. Cassi was very excited to receive roses from Mommy AND from Grandpa & GiGi.
We decided to be a bit untraditional and give her music teacher chocolate rather than flowers which she adored. Her name is Mrs. Larson and she is incredibly talented. She has been teaching for over 20 years in the area and is truly loved!



















After the show there was a Santa helper there visiting. We tried to talk Cali into chatting with him. She stared at him a while and thought a lot about it but in the end decided now wasn't the time.
All in all Cassi was our shining star in the night. Her voice was beautiful and I couldn't have been more proud. Neither could she. I would imagine this will be one of those memories that are burned into her thoughts for a long time. She was glowing all night. Looking at the photos, I'm sure you understand when I tell you I was as well.

Here area a few photos I managed to snap of the girls prior to leaving the house.












































Merry Christmas!