As you can imagine, Christmas season in a house with 4 little kids is pretty exciting. We go all out, with all the fixins. We’ve got like 4-giant bins full of Christmas stuff. (And luckily, Kari was able to find some more at the after Christmas sales that 
were just too good to pass up! I think we may need more bins!) Anyway, the whole month is a-buzz with activity.
We had visits with Santa. (AJ wasn’t too sure but Thomas was anxious to bend his ear.)
Homemade caramel and Christmas pageants.
And finally Christmas Eve! Here’s a shot of the kids ready to deck the halls at the Christmas Eve service at church.
We were again blessed this year with a bountiful harvest of presents, all 4 grandparents and Kari’s brother Brian on Christmas day. Kari cooked a giant turkey and enough food for an army. I think AJ has the whole unwrapping thing all figured out.
Last but not least for every December is Emma’s birthday. She had been dropping hints for the last few months that 10 is the age everybody gets their ears pierced. I’m not sure how true that is, but Emma is a pretty responsible young lady so we surprised her with a present of some real ear rings when we were out to eat for lunch at her birthday restaurant of choice, Hu-Hot.
Emma was very excited — then very nervous — then very proud (and a little bit sore).
Looks pretty grown up, huh?!?
The evening brought 4 of her friends over for a slumber party and a cake she decorated herself with a moon and star scene. Thought all the girls were asleep by 11:30, but found out the next morning they were up ’til closer to 2:30! Oh well. I think they all had a good time and Emma took the first nap she’s had in about 5 yrs the next afternoon.
Happy 10th Birthday, Emma!! Can’t believe it!
