Jankers

Now that it’s after Christmas, I better get this post of the last month up. We didn’t get a white Christmas but it’s coming down pretty strong right now. So come back soon for a Christmas and snow update.

Our neighbors must think we are crazy. Alicia has been working most evenings so the only time I get to work on my latest project is after the kids go to sleep. Anyone want to guess what it is?

This Holiday season we are staying home – which means we spent Thanksgiving in the NW visiting friends and family. It was a great drip despite some struggles. Both Nora and I were fighting a stomach bug for a majority of the trip. I think this was the first Thanksgiving I didn’t gain 5 pounds! Also, Seattle had fresh snow and record cold temps. Here are Nora, Levi and cousin sledding down the driveway.

Since I skipped my 20 year high school reunion, I roped a few close buddies into getting together one evening. It was a great time hanging out with Dave, Mike, Ben and their families. The kids outnumbered the adults! We also got to catch up with Father Frank, another classmate who is starting a new church in Woodinville. Thanks guys – sorry, I don’t have any pics.

We stayed one night with friends in Seattle. One of the highlights was jumping on Rylie’s trundle bed.

The last few nights we stayed with Grandma. The kids showed Grandma how to make toys out of any small objects and spread them all around the room… just like at home!

A few weeks ago we finally visited the Please Touch Museum in Philly. I could try to describe but a few pictures will give you the idea.
Me and one of my dates.

Levi learning how to drive

Nora’s first job as a digger operator

Levi’s favorite exhibit was the floating balls.

Nora had a ‘blast’ playing with the do-it-yourself rockets which could launch across the room.

Nora’s nursery class put on a Christmas Party last week. Before eating cookings in her classroom, her class and a few others put on a show of about 10 Christmas songs in the church.

It was really adorable!

Oh, here’s my project all completed.

It looks like we haven’t posted since Halloween. Anyone want to guess what our theme was this year?

Nora counting her loot. Levi got into it when he realized people would give him candy if he knocked on the door. I think he was in shock when we got home.

Nora has finally taken to her ‘run bike’ as we call it.

So I asked her if she wanted to do a kids bike race at my last cross race of the season. She was really excited so I signed her up! Despite her size she took to the line with pride. (she’s on the far right)

And she didn’t even crash like some of the other kids!

But, I did have to push her most of the way around. Running on grass and gravel doesn’t allow her to glide like she does down our driveway.

Nora and Levi recently went to a local Fire Station for a friend’s birthday party. They totally loved getting a tour all around but became a little nervous when we got to ride inside a big rig! They were still recovering when we tried to get a picture of them on the bumper.

So I finally decided to put my favorite beer (yes, still Dale’s Pale Ale) up to the test. I staged a Hopfest for friends after amassing over 20 different hoppy beers.

And I took the opportunity to teach Levi how to toast.

For those interested, Bear Republic Racer 5 won best overall.

A few months ago, Alicia started training for a 12K run. The day finally came a few weekends ago. (number 111)

The run was sponsored by the local PBS channel so the kids got to meet Elmo and Cookie monster in person! Nora loved it…Levi was hesitant at first.

During Alicia’s run, Nora, Levi and I got to do a 3K. For some reason Nora thought it was easier to run AND push the stroller!

But it took a toll on her.

Fortunately breaks were allowed…

…even before the half-way point

Afterwards, Nora was still standing and Levi was eager to get out and walk around.

And Alicia made it!

And Levi eventually came around with Elmo

Of course a walk in Center city isn’t complete without a picture with Sly

Oh, and the answer to my question earlier is, “the 4 food groups”.