Birthdays and Trees

There is always so much going on throughout December.  We have two birthdays in our family and both were fun.

We always celebrate Will's and my dad's birthdays together.  They both had their own candles to blow out.

Will opening his presents.  

And my dad was 'helped' by three little girls.

We made a huge poster card for Will's actual birthday a couple of days later.  You can almost tell that it says 'Happy Birthday' under all the kids coloring.

There had to be balloons for Rachel's birthday a week later.  A balloon fight is birthday tradition. But I don't think a balloon stands much of a chance against a Christmas tree.

Rachel opening some presents.  She was excited about this elf hat costume.

Blowing out the candles.  My siblings from Utah were traveling down for Christmas this day so we were able to spend the afternoon with them also.  That made it extra fun.

And onto the Umatilla tree lighting ceremony.  The city mayor guy gave a speech and then they flipped the switch and everyone oohed and aahed over the pretty lights.

Then we quickly went in out of the cold and enjoyed cookies and apple cider.

Santa made an appearance.  We had to stand in a long, slow line for our turn.

Adam also got to sit on Santa's lap.

At the end of the ceremony they gave out awards for the Umatilla coloring contest.  Whitney got second place out of all the Kindergartners.  I thought that was pretty amazing.  She is a good colorer.  I guess all those hours of us coloring together have paid off.  Great Job Whitney!

So we have been having fun.