Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

The anticipation of Christmas is so exciting-especially with little ones. 

December was packed with magical little memories...Here is a bit of the fun...

 Bridge Lighting

 Writing letters to Santa at Macy's...Natalie asked for a music box and Stratton asked for a race car.  Santa asked us to leave him sugar cookies with sprinkles...I'm glad to report that all three wishes were granted :)

Natalie's school Christmas Program...She was so nervous and had planned to help her teacher instead of going on stage to perform but much to our surprise...she decided (all by herself) to sing on stage with the rest of her class.  We were delighted to see her up there conquering her fear and so happy to see how proud she felt afterward!  (As the picture above suggests Strat was less than impressed ;)) 

We had a big celebration at the ice cream shop afterward!  Yay for Natalie!

 This Christmas Natalie got a big treat...a ticket to the Nutcracker.  My mom came with Natalie and I and the experience was so sweet.  We sat high up and off to the side so Natalie could watch the pit orchestra and dancers...She thought it was amazing.  My best memory of the afternoon was watching Natalie during the scene where the Mouse King and Nutcracker battle...Natalie was so into the moment that she shouted, "Oh DEAR!!!" as the Mouse King nearly defeated the Nutcracker.  It was precious to see her imagination and enthusiasm :)

 Natalie watched the entire performance like a little lady.

She liked the colored lights that shone on the wall during intermission :)

We had many special moments this month, but beginning the Nutcracker tradition with Natalie was a highlight

More to come on Santa's visit and our fun Christmas break!