Candlelight and Cousins

We celebrated Christmas Eve with my favorite part of Christmas, the candlelight service in Badger. The kids sang songs with us and held up pretty well, considering they were waiting to open presents afterwards. I love the pictures with the candles lit, next year I swear I am going to snap a few pictures during the service. There is nothing like candlelight on the kids faces (as long as they can keep the flame out of their hair). Then we rushed home had a great dinner and tore open those gifts.

On Christmas Day, we rushed over to Grandma Ellen's for more presents and COUSINS! The kids love to see their Doran cousins (wow are they getting big!) Lots of wrestling, dancing and running around. Another wonderful Christmas.

Christmas at the Clough's

We had a wonderful time at Sheryl and Randy's house celebrating Christmas. The kids played until they were tired and we ate until we couldn't (and lots of laughs too). Always so nice to be together again. Wish we could do this more often.

Happy Anniversary

Boppa and Papa Jim celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary yesterday (during the snow storm) while we traveled to Iowa. They attempted to have a nice lunch in Fort Dodge, but decided after a one mile trip, that maybe they could wait for visibility. We can attest that the weather was bad during our 10 1/2 hour trip that lasted 12 hours. On Sunday, we all went to Badger Lutheran Church and the flowers of the alter were in honor of their anniversary. Here's Holyn and Max posing with Boppa and the beautiful flowers. Congrats Boppa and Papa Jim!

He Does Exist

Max and Holyn got an early surprise visit from the big guy on Thursday night. So, in spite of the ice storm, Santa made it. And with both kids out of school due to the weather the delivery turned out to be a God send. Earlier on Thursday, Max hatched a plan of how to prove Santa was real. He told me to set up my camera, hide and get a picture of St. Nick delivering the presents. This also involved Mom staying up late and hiding, but they were willing to make that sacrifice. We tried to tell Max that Santa doesn't like to be photographed, but he didn't care. When the kids woke up the next morning and Dad returned from work, we broke the news of the exciting photo. You can judge for yourself, but as for me and Max (and Holyn) we believe!!

Max's Christmas Program

Max also did a great job yelling, I mean singing at his Christmas program. (He did stand up, wave and say "Hi, Mom", when he located me in the crowd.) The first song was good, the second one we spent a lot of time checking on something on the floor. Oh yeah, and spinning too. I have to admit he looked pretty cute with the new buzz (boy, its short). We had to stand in the balcony to see him (Holyn stood on a chair, while Dad held her waist).

Holyn's Christmas Program

Holyn did a wonderful job singing in her school program tonight. I can almost make out her voice over the others in the video. The class also sang two other songs and used instruments. Holyn got to beat on a drum (you can tell she loved to make a big bang). She also managed to stay quiet while the two other kindergarten classes sang and the 4th and 5th grades performed (including the band)! It was cute to see her sing their songs too, she told me she got bored in practice and learned them. One of my friends told us, "She's got to go into show business".

I Want A Hippopotamus for Christmas

Max and Holyn are in love with this song right now. That's why its on the blog and soon to be stuck in your head for days. Max has the tune down pat, and I hope to post a video of him singing it. So until then you get the 50 year old version. Happy Humming!

Starter Turkey

Unfortunately, this year we didn't get to go to Chicago for Thanksgiving (Lant had to work). So we decided to try to make on our own. This was my first try at the whole enchilada (turkey) and I started with the pumpkin pie on Wednesday night.


And this is how things ended up. I cooked the turkey in a baking bag (which I recommend) and it turned out excellent (if I do say so myself). Even the kids raved, and most of the time that's reserved for meals that have the words "Lunchables" on the box.


Here we are making gravy. Boy, were they ready to eat. Such show offs too.


Max was most impressed with Dad slicing the bird. Lant has had a lot of practice at this, but they thought the electric knife was amazing (remember Max loves swords right now).

And now, 4 meals and counting later, we are sick of turkey and potatoes. The countdown to Christmas has begun!

Turkey Play and Grandparent Day

Holyn's school had Grandparents Day today (by default, I was her grandparent visitor). The whole school welcomed the grandparents by singing songs in the gym (see the video below - make sure to pause the music on the playlist too). Then we had snacks and checked out the classrooms (and looked through Holyn's journal). Finally the Kindergarten classes put on a Thanksgiving Play. They dressed up as Pilgrims, Native Americans and even Turkeys (Holyn was a Native American Woman). They did a fabulous job, we were so proud of them! Watch out Hollywood.

Early Turkey Day

During our short, short trip to Iowa, we had a Thanksgiving celebration at Boppa and Papa Jim's. I am getting hungry again just thinking back. Our little posers here filled their plates (with a bit of help) and couldn't wait for dessert. Max and Uncle Chris definately got in some Jedi time and a couple sword fights too. Its amazing how Max loves Star Wars as much as his Uncle did (does). I bet you can guess what's on Max's Christmas list? Although we seem to be good on swords that shoot out and light up!

ISU Birthday

Lant and I traveled to Ames on Friday to attend the Football Letterwinners Reception and see the Clones play. And I got to celebrate my birthday at the ISU game, and boy was it COLD outside. But, thanks to my new best friend Ty (not pictured), Lant and I got to watch the game in comfort, the Club Section! The actual game seats were outside under the heat lamps. Check me out with my Bailey's and Hot Chocolate (thanks Lant!!) I also got to reconnect with Lisa from my sorority days. The Cyclone may have lost, but it still was lots of fun.

Happy Veterans Day

This is one of the many displays at Holyn's school of Veterans and Active Military. Students were asked to fill out stars honoring their relatives to celebrate Veteran's Day. This is the one we sent in of Papa Jim. Thank you to all our armed forces (and the families that support them) today and everyday for keeping us safe and free. We love you Papa Jim!!

All I Want For Christmas Is...

Yep, another is gone. All Holyn needs for Christmas is her two front teeth to grow in. She pushed this baby out during music class and it was her first attempt at going it alone. I don't think it counts as practice for the Christmas program, but we were surprised to see the gummy grin run up to the van after school. It's now safely next to her bed awaiting the Tooth Fairy's visit.

Eat, Drink & Be Scary

We celebrated our Halloween Day with a couple parties and trick-or-treating in Arcola. First, I helped at Max's Preschool Costume Party with games, crafts and treats. Next, Lant went to Holyn's school for their Fall Festival and helped with making smores at the campfire. We all met up again in the late afternoon and headed to our friends house for pictures and MORE candy. Holyn was always in character, so I didn't really get a good picture of her costume (note the folded arms like laying in a coffin, don't know where she comes up with this stuff).

Pictured above (from left to right) Max as a Storm Trooper, Holyn the Sassy Vampiress, Lauren an Indiana Cheerleader, Logan the Fire Fighter and Nathan the cute little Ducky!

Sorry Troy, but I warned you. Love the hair, although I don't think Lauren liked her dad in it!

This homeowner had flashing teeth and gave Max a little concern as he reached in for his treats. Holyn is an old pro at this game, she wanted to get the candy and run to the next house. Their bags were so heavy by the end, Mom and Dad had to lug them around.

We had a little fun with Max and made him pose with the policeman handing out candy. He kept saying, "But I didn't really do anything wrong, OK?" I was thinking Christmas card photo, no just kidding.

We ended the night at the volunteer fire department with popcorn, donuts and did I mention the kids got some candy? They had a ball sitting in the fire truck, trying on the firemen equipment and running around (high on sugar).

Life's Good

Today as I was putting together treat bags for Max's school party, Max came over to tell me this little gem. He said, "Mom, you make my life feel good". I sat back in my chair with a big grin and replied, "You make my life feel good too buddy". I had to blog it (and share it) because I never want to forget.

The Leg Bone is Connected to the WHAT?

Here is the skeleton Holyn made of herself at school. The class took turns tracing each other and then they each got to fill in their bones. I think she might be a little off on the pelvic bone, but overall a great effort. Its also a great Halloween decoration too!

The Windy City

We traveled to the Windy City this past weekend to visit Uncle Tom and Jess for Halloween fun. Great food, shopping and friends, who could ask for more? The kids got to run wild at the Children's Museum at Navy Pier (thanks again Tom & Jess).

They dug up dinosaur bones, constructed water creations (notice how wet their pants and shirts got?) and even got to jump in the leaves indoors.

All this and then a Halloween party, with caramel apples, pumpkins and treats too.

(Don't ya just love the posing by Holyn? She should teach a class on it!)

Followed by a quick trip to the scrapbook store, the park AND an outdoor Halloween festival. Can I just move there?

Toothless

Holyn lost her 3rd tooth tonight and pulled it out herself! She has quite the front gap now, all ready for that permanent tooth to slide right in, someday. Max helped loosen it last weekend with a little side kick in the bathtub. It was practically pointing sideways until one little pluck! The toothfairy left her a little note to say she was really brave and give a small treat.

And yes, I am planning to take a picture of the next tooth lost, and so on! Thanks for asking.

May The Force Be With You

With Halloween fast approaching, Lant and Max needed to practice their technique this past weekend. Max is crazy for Star Wars and is always trying to start a sword fight with one of us. Notice the cape which is his favorite blanket? (Its no secret why its his favorite -- it was a birthday gift from his girlfriend Ali). Max has decided to be a Storm Trooper for Halloween and Holyn plans to be a vampiress. I promise, more pictures to come!

Wii Will Rock You!

We purchased a Wii and who knew it was such an all-over body workout to play it. Max and Holyn love the boxing game (even if only one of them is playing at a time). Check out this clip of them showing off their skills. I need to try this.

Happy, Happy Birthday!

Holyn turns 6 today (yeah 6). She woke up and said "I'm not 5 anymore"! She is off at school (where she is also the snack leader today) and gets to start Cheerleading and Tumbling class at the YMCA tonight. Thanks to all for the cards, gifts and thoughts celebrating her big day. And thanks to Boppa, Papa Jim and Uncle Chris for coming out to celebrate with us over the weekend.

Hit Me With Your Best Shot

Max started Tae Kwon Do tonight and even though we told him he would not be hitting anyone, he did get to practice on the instructor. While they warmed up with a couple kicks, Max threw in a couple extra jumps for good measure (and some flash!) He is so excited to be part of the class and can't wait to go back. (You might want to mute the playlist on the lower side of the blog to hear the instructor talk to Max).

Painting Party

For Holyn's 6th birthday, we hosted a painting party at the local pottery shop. Each little girl got to paint a small item and together they made Holyn a dinner plate with their thumb prints (and Holyn's hand print in the center). After they created their masterpieces, they were ready to blow off some steam. The girls had cupcakes and pink lemonade followed by a very loud game of Simon Says. Max even got in on game too.

So Proud of You

I got to volunteer at Holyn's school yesterday and get a small peek into her world. She was really excited to have me there, and told everyone in her class I was coming. Holyn loves to be with her friends and learn. As we walked together into the front school entrance, Holyn was beaming ear to ear.
After the normal routine, putting away book bags and announcements, the class took their seats. They broke into small groups and I helped Holyn's group stamp their names on paper and then make words out of play dough. Holyn's teacher pulled me aside to tell me Holyn has an amazing vocabulary and knows how to use it (actually she said she was impressive). Another teacher told me Holyn helped one of her classmates feel more comfortable about school by walking her to class (on a day she was really struggling with being there). As the teacher said this, we both looked over to see Holyn helping the same friend tie her shoes. Needless to say I had to fight back a couple tears.
Holyn, Dad and I couldn't be more proud of you. Keep up the great work.

1st Day of Pre-K

Max started school today, and as he told me before bed last night "Mom, tomorrow is the biggest day of my life". (I had to pass that little gem on to all!) He was soooo ready to get back to his routine and his class. He now has 16 kids to play with (8 boys and 8 girls). I was impressed to see when the second bell rang, Max yelled "time to take our seats guys" and ran to his assigned seat from last year (followed by all his buddies). Mrs. Hobbs commented that it was going to be a great year with a start like this! Now, if she could only tell me how to get him to do that at home. Guess I need a bell.

Chicago & The Shedd

The Dorans went to visit Uncle Tom & Jess in Chicago for Labor Day Weekend, and as usual, we got spoiled! Uncle Tom made 2 (yes 2) Boston Cream Pies for us to enjoy and homemade ableskivers and pancakes for breakfast. (Can I move in?) Holyn and Max got to play with their buddies the dogs too. They were in heaven can't ya tell? We beat the heat and went to the park, walked to Lake Michigan, rode a city bus (the kids begged to do so), visited the Shedd Aquarium, went miniature golfing, had Chinese food, pizza and Miss Molly cupcakes and shopped Chicago. The kids loved the sharks at the aquarium and definitely the 4D World show. Thanks for the fun guys!

At the end of the rainbow

Holyn completed the school colors week #2 with a bang, the ever popular rainbow skirt for Friday's Rainbow Day. She had a lot of fun choosing what to wear. Monday was Brown Day, Tuesday was Black & White day, Wednesday was Purple Day, and Thursday was Pink Day (our favorite!). Even Max wanted his picture taken everyday, like Holyn. He can't wait for school like big sis, only he might not be as colorful with the outfits, just his behavior.

Back to School COOL

Well, what can I say. Shopping for school clothes, Max spotted this baby at H&M and that was all it took! He told me how cool he would be if he got it (can you believe I fell for that line?) and that he would be able to look tough on his bike (no, not a Harley, his two wheeler). So, here he is. And yes, it may be 90 degrees today but we are still cool.

Rainbow Connection

Holyn's class is talking about colors this week and next. So, in celebration of color they were asked to wear a certain color each day. And yes, we were all over that one. Check out the first week's wardrobe.

She is loving school, Max still wishing Holyn was home. He asked her on Monday if she wanted to just "skip a day" and stay home with him. She wasn't so keen on that. Besides, she would have to miss her favorite parts of Kindergarten - hot lunch and recess.

1st Day of Kindergarten

Yes, my baby is at Kindergarten! She was so ready to start the day, she woke me up with her outfit in hand. And she asked every 5 minutes for an hour if we were going yet. Holyn posed (don't know where she gets that from) for a couple pictures and couldn't wait to get inside and see her teacher Mrs. Picco. Mrs. Picco has taught school for 29 years, with 21 years of Kindergarten. She said her dream came true last year when she got to teach her first year of all-day Kindergarten. Holyn and Mrs. Picco are already on a first name basis as you can imagine. Parents stayed for the first hour and did activities to get the kids settled. After a snack and a tight squeeze, Holyn was ready to go it alone. Just wish mom was, miss ya already kid!