Snow Day Fun #2

So we have already had a second snow day - two in one week! We decided to have more of an indoor day since it was snowing all morning. I was even able to make an appointment for a haircut, Max already had an appointment scheduled for his flu shot, and then Pat decided to get a haircut, too, so staying inside made the most sense, at least for the morning.
I wanted to do something with Leah to get ready for Christmas, but I did not want to make a big mess. So I decided on making Pretzel Treats - yummy! All you need is a small pretzel, a Hershey kiss and a holiday M&M. Leah did an awesome job of unwrapping the kisses and placing them on the pretzels - she didn't even try to eat one while on the job! Once she did decide to sneak a little snack - she was fired! I also made some chocolate-dipped jellies. Max had a great time hanging out in the kitchen!
After our afternoon appointments, Pat was outside shoveling and filling the bird feeders. Leah really wanted to go out - so I bundled her up and she headed out to help fill the feeders. She had a blast! Another perfect Snow Day!

Snow Day Fun

The first 'storm' of the season has arrived in Cincinnati. I always have to laugh when snowfall is predicted - the entire city panics and practically shuts down. Last night Pat and I both received calls that we would have a two-hour delay this morning. I am all for a delay - get to sleep in a little and still go to work. Especially this time of year where we only have seven days left until winter break - I have everything planned perfectly. But we received a second phone call this morning - canceled. I will admit it is nice to have the day off, but we only have three freebie days this year, and I just was not ready to use one so soon - and now I have to rework the next six days.

But being home on a snowy day has been fun. Fortunately, Leah's snow pants still fit from last year - not quite sure how, but they do. But I did need to send Pat out to get her some new boots. Max is easy - just bundle him really good with blankets. We headed out for some sled riding in the backyard. Leah loved it. She had a great time running around, playing with the dog and falling in the snow. Max was okay. I think we took him out at a bad time. He was fussing before we went out, and as soon as the cold hit, he just cried more. But once I was able to start pulling him in the snow, he enjoyed it. We came inside to a nice lunch and hot cocoa.
Afterwards, we headed to uptown Oxford for a new tradition that was started last year. And yes to the grandparents, this is a spoiler. Last year we started a new tradition of Leah painting ornaments. She did much better this year - she did not need any help. Max will have to wait until next year to start his collection. We also had Leah make a square tile. We plan to have her, and Max, make one every year and then someday we will have them placed to make the top of a table - or something - lots of time to figure that out.So while I wasn't too thrilled initially with a snow day - I'm already concerned I will be working until the middle of June - it was a perfect day, and well worth it!

Birthday and Christmas Parties

Last weekend we were in Rocky River to celebrate Addison's first brithday! I can't believe that Addison is already one! She still seems so little! Leah was very excited about going to a party and singing Happy Birthday. Pictured are Leah, Max, Addison and Addison's cousin, Lane. Leah especially enjoyed the cupcakes. She enjoyed licking the icing off, and then refused to eat the cake part.We were also able to see my good friend, Leah.Max enjoyed playing with Uncle Bub's beard.Addison with mom and dad on the morning of her birthday.We were also able to go to a Christmas party on Sunday afternoon. It was for my dad's lodge group. We went to the annual event as kids, and I thought it would be nice for Leah and Max - and my dad. It was fun to get Leah and Max all dressed up, and attempt some nice pictures.There were two puppet shows and Santa. Leah enjoyed the puppet show, but as soon as Santa made his grand entrance, she ran the other way. Max was intrigued by the guy with the long, white beard. And I got some great shots of Leah and Pat.At the end of the party, Leah, Max and Addison enjoyed their gifts and a cupcake! And yes, Leah would only lick the icing. Leah even got to ride down the 'old fart chair' at the lodge with Hippa!