Aeroplane Flies High (Turns Left, Looks Right)

A busy two weeks around here are in the books. Since our last posting we have survived Christmas, avoided a blizzard, visited Florida, Jack and Lily attended their first hockey game and Jack went to his first football game. It was an action packed holiday.

Lily wound down her first semester at kindergarten and it was a smashing success. She is on the cusp of reading by herself and her writing is fantastic. Her social skills are growing in leaps and bounds and she is turning into a full fledged little person.

Jack is completely acclimated to pre-school and loves going in everyday. This weekend he is going to be working on potty training - whether he likes it or not - and hopefully he will be on his way to taking care of business the right way.

Christmas was great as always at Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom's house. Lily and Jack scored with gifts from Santa and all their relatives. We spent time with Aunt Kelly, the aforementioned Grandparents, Great Grandma Katie, Great Uncle Mike and Aunt Jeanie, cousins Alli and Davis, Great Uncle Carlton and Great Aunt Jenny and cousin Alex. It was a full house.

On Sunday after Christmas we avoided the first blizzard of the season and jetted down to Florida for a visit. We had a busy with trip but got to spend quality time with family - we visited with Bubbie, Aunt Donna, Uncle Stephen, cousins Emilie and Stephanie. We also had a chance to see Grandpa Maurice and Grandma Phyllis and Great Uncle Jerry and Aunt Eve.

Although the weather was a bit cool, it warmed up as the week went on. We went from jacket weather on Monday to pool and beach weather by the end of the week. The kids had a great time at the beach and loved playing in the sand and water despite the frigid temperatures.

While in Florida, the kids got a chance to go their first hockey game. The Montreal Canadiens were in town and Uncle Stephen was able to secure some great seats for the whole family. We had a great New Year's Eve at the game and the Habs (who we rooted for temporarily) were able to pull out the overtime 3-2 win. It was very exciting and the kids loved the action and the crowd was really into the game.

We returned home on Saturday night and visited with Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom for dinner. We were home in our own beds on Saturday night and everyone slept well after a busy, full week. Jack and I capped off the weekend with his first Redskins game. It was a rainy, late afternoon game and he made to the third quarter before he was tired and ready to home. He passed out in the car an slept all the way through until this morning.

A great two weeks - thanks to all the family who welcomed us into their homes and visited with us. We had a great time.

Enjoy the pics.


Opening a Christmas Eve present.


Jack working with a flashlight.


Checking out stocking goodies.


Opening some goodies.


Jack and the Buddha.


Lily and the Buddha.


Lily and Cousin Steph.


Feeding the ducks with Grandpa Maurice and Grandma Phyllis.


At the beach.


Discussing politics.


A little sandy.


A close up.


With Em and Steph.


With Aunt Donna.


Playing nicely at dinner.


At the hockey game - temporarily pulling for the Habs.


With Bubbie.


At his first Redskins' game.