Christmas Tree

Since we are traveling for Christmas this year, Rob didn't want to get a tree.  We're not leaving until Christmas Day, but he was worried about the fire hazard if we left it up for two weeks while we were gone.  So we compromised and went with simple decorations which will be easy to take down Christmas morning before we leave.
The kids and I decorated it today and I am very pleased with how happy it looks.  I've all my life had chaotic trees full of unique ornaments which each hold a special sentimental value.  While I love that tradition, it was kind of fun to just go with COLOR for this year.  Decorating it was the perfect way to spend our Ice Day.

Ice Day

The kids are home from school today on account of ice.  It did snow yesterday (so pretty) but not enough to shut down schools.  The layer of ice covering everything though?  That makes shutting down school a good call in my book.

Gavin is thrilled.  He's been outside since before I wanted to be out of bed.  "Everything is covered in ice, Mom!  Everything."

It looks like the Snow Queen came.

Thanksgiving

We had a calm and quiet Thanksgiving this year.  Jasper and Serenity helped me with the cooking.  We all spent the day at home, playing games and eating and enjoying the peaceful day together.  We have so much to be thankful for this year, as always.  Sometimes Thanksgiving seems a day of almost embarrassing abundance.  I think in the next year I would like to put more blessings out there into the world, because I certainly have more than my share!