Rock Star!

We have discovered in the past months that Joel is very interested in music....but, it's not exactly the Motzart/Bach that a mother might hope for. Joel's current obsession? AC/DC. Yes, folks, he's a rocker through an through. Literally, he will scroll through the songs on Jack's iPad and skip almost any songs that don't begin with the tell-tale AC/DC guitar riff. It is quite humorous that he can pick it out by ear within a few seconds. The child is rock crazy! His favorite thing to do is "rock out" with Jack, Nora and I in the kitchen and play air guitar. For Christmas, Nora picked out a pretend guitar for him, and it quickly became his favorite present. Here he is, giving us his "rock-and-roll face." This kid is a trip!

Rock on, Joel. Rock on...

We Wish You a Merry Christmas

As always, we had a very blessed Christmas season this year. Joel and Nora really got into the whole "Santa" thing this year, which was super fun, and we enjoyed a December filled with parties, Christmas programs, baking, gifts and lots and lots of love! We were especially excited to get to see Aunt Elaine who came to visit all the way from Germany for two whole weeks. We sure do miss her now that she is gone! And of course, we are grateful to our Savior Jesus Christ and always remember that it is because of Him we celebrate this blessed season.

 Santa was a complete bust this year. Nora was once again, not a fan, and Joel was very shy. 

 A family picture at Joel's Puppy Pound Preschool graduation. We were so proud of him!

 Joel and Nora on the way to Joel's preschool Christmas party. 

She was so excited to go to school with him!

 The kids enjoyed building gingerbread houses with their cousins at Grandma Rita's. They both talked about it for a week afterwards, and Nora just could not get enough of staring at her house. She loved it!

 Joel rocking out with his new drum set from Grandma Traci. Oh, my ears!!!

 Christmas Eve picture of the kids.

 Santa came!!!

 Nora and her new Bitty Baby. She loves her! 

 Nora and Cousin Megan. The kids loved spending time with their cousins from Denver and Springfield. 

We sure do wish we got to see them all more often!