The Polar Express

Also in that weekend before Christmas, George and I had a special surprise for the kids. First, I printed and laminated tickets for each of them to the "Polar Express." Then, I popped popcorn and made hot chocolate, and we all got into our pajamas. I met the kids at the door with their tickets,

and we headed out to look at Christmas lights.

The entire time, we listened to The Polar Express soundtrack. Danny kept saying, "This is so awesome," especially when we got to the patriotic house (featured on Good Morning America).

We drove for quite a while, and by the time we were on our way home, Danny was pooped. He and his bear had had too much fun.



In preparation for Christmas

The weekend before Christmas, we had a very special Friday night with the kids. George took Megan to the Police Department to feed the night shift Christmas dinner and I took Danny shopping. From what I hear, George could not take any pictures of Megan as she was at the dessert table or flirting with boys the whole evening. However, I took Danny to McDonalds (his favorite) and then to the stores so that he could get the gifts from him. He was so happy, as he rarely gets McDonalds, and he got some alone time with his momma.

The next day, we bottled all of our homemade vanilla.

We love making it and giving it to our friends. It makes us happy!

Megan, I'm sorry...

Megan has been playing the cello this year in orchestra, and she loves the instrument. Her orchestra concert was on December 8, 2011, but I did not get the pictures until a few minutes ago. Megan, I am sorry it has taken me this long, but I didn't forget! It was a lovely concert. Here are a few pics from the night...

Beautiful kids, aren't they?

My weakness...

Some people love chocolate and sweets - I could probably live without them. Some love beer - I like it but would not be devastated if I could never have one again. My weakness is savory hors d'oeuvres, specifically this...

plus this...

or this...

on these...

I don't know why, but I can't resist the flavor. If we're ever at a party and you can't find me, I'll be at the hors d'oeuvres table.

Congratulations, Honey!

Each year, TPD has a Christmas lunch and an annual awards ceremony that accompanies it. Amazingly, on December 16th of this year, George was recognized for his hard work, and received the Officer of the Year Award for the afternoon patrol shift that he left in June. On the 15th, he cooked all day for the Christmas dinner, but unfortunately, he was unable to make the dinner and awards ceremony. He finally brough his certificate home this week, and I had to share.

I am so proud of my husband. He is absolutely the best man I know, and his honesty and integrity are unmatched in this world.  He very rarely receives any recognition from anyone but me, and I am so happy for him. He has deserved it for a very long time.  Congratulations, Honey!