New swings!

 

The uncles working on the playset.

Christmas morning

 

On Christmas eve Julie and Nate left fresh baked chocolate chip cookies for Santa and carrots for the reindeer in front of the fireplace. Their hard work paid off the next morning with full stockings and a couple of extra presents under the tree. Nate's big present was the oft-requested Lego freight train and Julie got her ponies and barn/stable. Not to mention all the goodies from other family members.

Frosty mornings

 

SF by BART

 

 

 

 

Our first BART ride into San Francisco. We hopped off the first City exit to do our annual visit to the Hyatt to see the lighted town/train displays and the 20 story interior lights hanging from the ceiling. And as always, we rode the glass elevators to survey the scene. Even I get a little vertigo from that ride. Julie was again too scared to sit on Santa's lap so we watched the ice skaters outside, took a few pictures, and high-tailed it home.

Parents' Visit

 

 

 

 

The timing was perfect for a sunny visit from our Snohomish visitors. The air was even clear enough for a pretty good view from Mt. Diablo's light beacon, which we later found is only lit to commemorate Pearl Habor Day on December 7, a few days after we visited. The kids were a little ornery due to long school days and our no-nap routine, but they had enough energy to bake gingerbread cookies and keep everyone busy.

This Year's Gingerbread Creation!

Julie and Nate showcase their gingerbread house in front of the current installation at Lafayette's newest art gallery.

Thanksgiving II

We visited Grace and Joe's house for a post-Thanksgiving get together and had a birthday celebration for grandmom too. It was fun to play with the cousins and enjoy Aunt Janine's great brunch. Joe was quick with the bunny ears.

Thanksgiving Feast

Our first family soiree at the house...let alone our first turkey cooked at home! It came out wonderfully. Kudos to the master chef, Michael, and to the head turkey carving guy, Uncle Dan. Grandmom, Uncle Dave, Uncle Mark, and Aunt Mimi were all on hand to share the bounty (not just that on the table) that we are so grateful for.