Children's Museum

If you know me at all, you know that I am not a big fan of museums, especially ones focused on children. But our last visit to the Children's Museum in St. Paul was actually pretty fun. It was very quiet, which helped, and Millie was older so I wasn't nearly as terrified when she was out of sight. Millie's favorite part of our visit? Going to the Candy Land store, a candy store down the street from the museum, for a sucker. Figures. 

In Peter Rabbit's house in the Story Book exhibit. 

Making "snow angels" in The Snowy Day. It looks more like a giant ice monster is about to swallow our girls.

DIY face painting.

Elliot gets a little help from Mom.

It's never too early to do some career research.

Petting Petunia the rat. Notice Petunia running for her life.

Elliot's birthday party

This time last year, we were all freezing our patooties off at Elliot's birthday party, which includes skating at Langford Park. This year, it was sunny and warm, Elliot was upright on his fancy new skates, and no one was in a hurry to get inside.

Look Ma', no coat!

Opi's got him.

Skating!

Or not...

I'm ok!

Christmas loot

Santa is a very busy man, but he is nothing if not efficient. In order to deliver all those toys to all those girls and boys, he spreads his travels over a few days. It would just be too stressful to try and fit it all into one night. It's a big world, after all, and Santa's already over-worked heart cannot handle any unnecessary stress. 

So first, he shows up at our house. And Millie is ready. 

She asked for a Minnie costume and was please to see that Santa got the memo, even though she kept forgetting to send him a list. Thank goodness he has WiFi. 

What's in here? 

Why it's Kitt Kittredge, American Doll!

And we're off to Iowa. 

All dressed up for present opening! 

Grandma, Grandpa, and a whole boatload of grandkids (missing Abbie who is currently studying in Austria). 

Dancing outside with Dru in the Christmas heatwave. 

Barefoot coffee on the front porch. Merry Christmas!

Playing Hedbandz with Aunt Allison and Dru. 

The idea was for Dru and Millie to sleep in our room. But Millie kicked Dru out when he couldn't contain his excitement.