Wow. It's the last day of December. The final day of another year.
December was full of holiday traditions: Afternoon Tea at the Chateau Laurier, The Nutcracker Ballet, a visit with Santa Claus, countdown to Christmas, the funny antics of Wally the Elf, Christmas baking, Senior Kindergarten Holiday Program, writing cards, decorating the house and wrapping presents. And not forgetting the anniversary of the day Lilah joined our family - December 12th 2008 - that is a day I will never forget.
We most certainly ended the year on a high note, with a beautiful Christmas as a family of four. So thankful.
The Calico Critters Camping set was the only gift Lilah asked for this Christmas!
I really enjoy listening to her imagination with this set. Unfortunately she only seems to get to play with it when Phebe isn't around, because Phebe, makes light work of toys like this! Which works out okay right now, because Phebe naps for 2 hours every day!
I took these pictures on Boxing Day. And from listening in on her dialogue, this is what I learned...
The Critters were in Cuba, North Africa... actually, they were only in North Africa because they were searching for South Africa - they finally found it! And then they were on their way to Ireland... all within a 10 minute period! And the Mom was reading the map, because she's younger and smarter. Did you know that the older you get the less smart you are? Yep, according to Lilah! Oh yes, the Dad is 15 and the Mom is 10!
Gotta love her imagination.
Lilah and I made these treat bags for Lilah to give to all her school friends tomorrow.
I love the blog [simple as that]. I love her photography and fresh ideas. And when she posted the printout for these labels/tags, "Have A Holly Jolly Christmas" - I knew we were going to make them! All I had to do was find the Jolly Rancher candy to go with the label. And I did find it, in Bulk Barn!
Funny, because when I was in the Bulk Barn I had an epiphany (it doesn't happen often!), but I saw a big bin full of Hershey's kisses and I was thinking a label that said "Merry Kissmas" would be a great idea too. Of course, I would have to make the label myself, so that could be my answer to that great idea!
Anyhow, here's the link for the tag printout!
You know how I love to reminisce!
: Lilah and Amelia in China the day after we got them.
: And yesterday. 4 years and 2 days difference.
Their expressions say it all, in both photos.
Here's another tradition I love!
One of our good friends that we met through the adoption playgroup, when we brought Lilah home, organizes a (mothers and daughters only!) afternoon tea get together at the Château Laurier. I love this hotel and the food is delicious! But my favourite part of all, is seeing friends. We have a special bond with some of these families.
In fact, the family we travelled to China with, was there - and Lilah was thrilled to see her friend, Amelia. I tell you, those two just pick up where they left of. They have such a lovely bond together. (There is a photo of them below, sitting grinning together!)
All being well, next year Phebe will join us. I know Lilah will be thrilled to bring her along.
Yesterday, the teachers had a walk-out day, which meant Lilah had no school!
It was SO nice to spend a day together with no timelines and no schedules! So we made the most of the day and went to check out a local museum - Canada Space and Aviation Museum - to be exact! To be fair, for little kids, this museum could be a tad boring, but the playroom certainly made up for that! And the open space is very desirable for a rambunctious two year old! Oh, and the girls sure felt they'd hit the jackpot with those fabulous little planes they could peddle around!
So I guess it wasn't that boring. I'm just not a history buff or into planes, well, unless they're taking me away, on a vacation! ...the girls had plenty of fun! These are the things you do on cold winter days!
