Christmas fun and bugs all around.

Christmas is officially behind us and it was one for the books. The Christmas prep was perfect, the kids anticipated the arrival of the big man himself and we did everything to keep the spirit alive. From gingerbread houses, to homemade gifts (for Dave), to ice skating outings for me and the older two, we covered all of the bases. Then the sicknesses set in. We all had lingering colds which didn't waver, poor Piper took it the worst. After a persistent fever and cough/cold which turned into vomiting and serious snuggles and major moodiness, I got her in to see the doctor. Unfortunately she had a raging ear infection. After a few days of antibiotics, she was finally starting to show signs of her old self, which is actually her new self...a full fledged toddler! After pulling it together for a family gathering at my parents' house on Christmas Eve, I woke up on Christmas morning sick as a dog. I was only able to stay vertical long enough to open gifts before I made my way back to bed. It was awful. I slept on an off all day, poor Dave was left to his own devices with all three. We cancelled all plans and focused on recovering. We are finally on the mend after four solid weeks of someone being sick.

Since Piper's week long flu required us to eliminate her bottles (due to her vomiting), we decided it was a good time to ditch the bottle, rather than fight that fight again in a few months. She has tolerated the transition just ok. She refuses milk in any form, but she has picked up eating table food really well. So, we are well on our way. She is a mega toddler who knows what she wants and knows exactly how to get it. Sully and Greta think her tantrums are hilarious and I think they are darling. Her looks are even changing a bit, too. She seems taller and acts so independent, and has the silliest sense of humor.

Although it isn't a Christmas I want to repeat, it was a great holiday. The kids all got what they wanted and loved their gifts. It is so fun to see them get into the spirit and their imaginations take place. They make life so fun. 

Gift wrapping at the mall. 

Making ornaments for daddy. 

Gingerbread house fun. 

Homemade wrap for daddy's present. 

Greta's masterpiece. 

Piper's. 

Holiday party at Sully's school. 

We had time to sneak in a tacky party for Liz's 40th(!!!).

The birthday girl with her guy. 

Snuggles with the crew. 

Doctor visit with my babe. 

The grand finale. 

Ice skating fun.

Barely standing ;).

Santa came!

Mastering the art of gift opening. 

Sooo excited. 

Piper gets in on the fun.
Smiles with tears...on the mend. 

Action photo of all three.