It wasn't much, but it was fun

Kasper and Emmett took full advantage of the first snow day of the season here in Virginia. And yes, I know Kasper should be all zipped up. He was vehemently opposed and doesn't seem any worse for the wear.

About the lack of Christmas cards...

We tried. Really, we did. Here's how things turned out.

Christmas 2008

We were up opening gifts before 7am. Kasper wanted to unwrap his gifts and everyone else's too. Emmett had no interest in unwrapping anything but is fascinated with his glitter ball. Patrick got a netbook and I don't think he's put it down yet. I roasted a chicken, made amazing gravy and felt like a domestic goddess.

I'm going to quote Wil Wheaton here, because he's got a way with words: "Happy winter festival of your choice. Whatever you choose to celebrate this time of year, I hope it's filled with all the stuff you like, none of the stuff you don't like, and that you're surrounded by people you love, because that's how I'm doing it, and it rules."

Thanksgiving

It's hard to be far from our extended families during the holidays, but we have a pretty good time on our own. Thanksgiving '08 started with the boys at the park while I borrowed a roasting pan since the turkey I bought didn't fit in anything I owned (yeah, oops on that one!). Once we got home, everyone pitched in and we prepared a lovely dinner. Kasper and Emmett especially enjoyed dessert (as always).

Kasper took this one. Don't I look ready for the Food Network?

Kasper took this one too - both of us with no kids - shocking!

The bird is on the table.

Emmett shows the apple crisp who's boss.
Kasper isn't serious about much, but he is serious about dessert.

366 speedy-quick days!

It's hard to believe we've only known Emmett for a year. It seems like he's been around forever. The progression of the first year amazed us again - he went from a squawking lump of love to a boy who runs, laughs, claps, waves and high fives. He does a very cute peek-a-boo too. We celebrated a day early with an apple crisp. Like most foods, Emmett ate it up joyously and without hesitation. May he always move through life with such ease.

Hanging out, eating pizza crust at my mall

Showing off his Maine roots with L.L. Bean duck boot shoes and a vest

Eating pizza in a different mall and demonstrating his excellent straw-drinking abilities

Looking very serious about the flaming candle Dada is holding

Chowing down on his apple crisp - happy first birthday Emmett George! We love you!

Wheeee!

We were back at Frying Pan Park Sunday. It's always a good spot for a little outdoor time. As a bonus, there are photos of all four of us!

(Emmett loved the slide. How did we end up with two thrill-seekers?)

A quick afternoon trip

One of the fun things about living in Northern Virginia is the option to head into DC, bust Dad out of work an hour early and go to the Smithsonian & National Mall. This was a special trip to go see the Sant Ocean Hall at the Museum of Natural History. It was awesome. The giant squid was truly gigantic (but difficult to photograph). Kasper enjoyed the Humbolt squid exhibit - he'd be happy to tell you all about it, he and Dad watched a PBS Nature program on it. The globe was amazing - I included a few photos so you can see how it changes.

Emmett liked walking on the Mall. He likes walking anywhere.

(Please excuse the photo quality - Mama remembered both kids, carrier, snacks, sweatshirts, etc but only brought the camera phone.)