ISU Christmas Party

So on this day we had a birthday party at the pottery studio and a Christmas party for ISU staff.  Since Papa Mike works for the University, Emma and Lauren were able to attend and enjoy the activities--photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, Reggie Redbird, Gamma Phi Circus, art projects, treats, and tattoos.  Because the two events overlapped, we were a bit rushed to experience everything.  Emma missed out on the jumpy house, but there's always next year.  We had a great time and look forward to this yearly children's party.

Pottery Painting Party

Birthday party number two--pottery!  This was Emma's first time painting pottery.  She chose a Minnie Mouse ornament.  It was a challenge to hold the round piece and cover all of the curves, but she did it with very little help.  Emma is a budding artist, so I think we'll be visiting the pottery studio again soon.

First-Time Bowler

Emma was invited to a bowling birthday party.  Several of her classmates turned five in December, and they each had a different party venue and theme.  This was Emma's first time bowling.  She liked using the ramp, but also gave freehand rolling a go.  The bumpers were up to prevent gutter balls, but the ball  did drop off into the gutter at the last second every now and then!  It was a good time for all!

Sisterly Love

Precious!

Beautiful Babes

 

Yes, these were also taken at the photo session.  I think we purchased 10 different poses and qualified for a few "freebies" like the entire shoot on a CD, a Christmas ornament, and mini photo books.  This is why we only have them done once a year . . . but with two girls maybe we should take them twice a year!  I love it!

Say Cheese!

Might I brag . . . what gorgeous girls!  I just love having their pictures taken.  During the moment, it is so chaotic and you think there is no way the photographer got any good shots.  Then you narrow them down during the selection process and realize why they are the professionals.  The family picture is our Christmas card this year.

An Early Christmas

 

Oh what fun it is to . . . open presents!!!  We always celebrate Christmas at Thanksgiving with Scott's parents, grandma, aunts, uncles, brother, sister-in-law, and niece.  Emma's been on a Cars and Jake and the Neverland Pirates kick for awhile now.  She was a lucky girl!  We really appreciate the outpouring of love.  It was great to visit with everyone and see the girls play with their older cousin, Sydney.

Lovable Lauren

Here are a few of our favorite pics of Lauren this past month.  She's a happy baby like her big sister!  It's so fun to watch the girls together.  Emma wants to love on Lauren all the time.