Santa in Chicago

It's become a tradition for us to go to Chicago in the weeks before Christmas to see the decorations, do some shopping, and visit Santa at Bloomingdale's. The line was fairly long, but Myla and Luke waited very patiently. At one point you get to this little wall and you can finally see Santa! I don't think Myla took her eyes off him. And then we were next--Luke was doing everything he could to get at Santa (though you'll see below that his enthusiasm didn't last).



Myla walked right up to Santa and they began a conversation.



Santa then invited the kids to sit in his lap. Myla didn't need to be asked twice, but Luke was . . . apprehensive. To say the least. I love this second one, where Myla is loving it and Luke is melting down.




Myla gave Santa her list (pink sled with a black string, a Snoopy buddy and a Woodstock buddy), and Luke's (a bouncy horse). Then Santa gave them a gift--a penguin for Myla and a polar bear for Luke. Myla was completely enchanted.




Our trip to Santa was a total delight. It was amazing how much Myla had grown up since last year, and I couldn't get enough of her enthusiasm. And Luke's meltdown was fun, too. Love that Santa!

Christmas Tree

After returning from Thanksgiving, we decorated our tree. Luke was able to help this year, putting a pile of ornaments on a single branch.



Myla had fun too, especially since there were chocolate chip cookies involved.

Cincinnati Zoo

While in Northern Kentucky for Thanksgiving, we spent an afternoon at the wonderful Cincinnati Zoo. It was great to get outside and see their Christmas decorations. Here are some pics.

Thanksgiving Fun with Cousins

We spent Thanksgiving this year with Matthew's family in Northern Kentucky. The cousins had a lot of time to play together, which they rarely do, and they took full advantage. Myla snuggled up with baby Julia any time she got a chance.


Myla and Megan are two of a kind, and could play together happily for hours.

Luke pretty much did his own thing, but had a lot of fun too!


We wanted to get a shot of all the cousins together, and there are so many good ones here. Cute ones, funny ones--in all of them, I think Myla looks so grown up. I put two favorites here, but if you want to see them all you can click on the slideshow below. It's worth it!