It Offically Begins. . . .

This first part is for Grandpa and Grandma Thomas. This year they dropped their gifts off early. We decided on Thursday night to let the kids open their ornaments so they could put them on the tree.

My parents and brothers are spending Christmas in Phoenix, AZ this year (lucky them so nice and warm). My parents go out every year for several months and decided to go out early this year. Kansas is a stopping point, about half way. They always come on a Friday and leave Monday. We were lucky to spend several days with them this year and celebrated Christmas with them.

A big brother's love???

We are trying to teach London how to open packages, but she was more interested in the bows and shredding tissue paper. At least she wasn't eating like she did at her birthday.

Russ and I received a gift together this year. I have been talking and looking for a nativity set for probably about three years, but just hadn't found what I was looking for or couldn't decide what style I wanted. This year mom and dad got us one - the complete set! It is beautiful and simple just what I was looking for. It is from the Willow Tree collection. I remember that as kids we all wanted to set up the nativity. It was fun to arrange all the animals, Wisemen, and baby Jesus. It seemed we each had a different way to arrange them. This will be something to pass down to London.

Birthday Pictures

About a month ago we celebrated Konley's 10th birthday early, not quite knowing what the next few weeks would bring. We had a private showing of the "Cars" movie (Konley's favorite movie) at Warren theaters for friends and family. We then celebrated afterwards with cake. Everyone seemed to a have great time especially since we were provided with FREE popcorn, soft drinks and one candy item.

more pictures . . . . .

For his actual birthday grandpa and grandma Thomas came up on Tuesday night and had dinner with us and gave Konley a wonderful gift. He loves to fish and what a perfect way to keep catching them since the weather has turned cold outside.

Konley spent Tuesday night with us and my parents came out early from Ohio to help celebrate his birthday. He had a birthday breakfast with us. He spent the rest of the morning with Russ, had lunch with his parents, and celebrated dinner at Red Robin with his mother and family. He was very excited to turn 10, Tuesday evening he asked me about 4 times in an hour what time it was. I should of never of mentioned that your official birthday starts at midnight. :)

Apples to Apples is a great game to play. One of Konley's favorites. His uncle Mike brought this game to Garnett over Easter. We had so much fun playing it. So many different ages can play.

Fun while shopping

Just having a little fun while Christmas shopping. This is at Towne East mall. Santa was on the other side and Russ had a great idea to use it as our backdrop. I love shopping during the Christmas season. I love feeling the excitment and energy from everyone around. Sorta like being in Vegas.

A very nice older gentleman walking by with his shopping cart stopped and offered to take our picture. We explained how to use the camera and you could tell he just wasn't sure about using a digital camera. But it was nice of him to offer.

Are you JEALOUS?

Wrapped and ready to go. . . .

is this crazy or what? for the kids

I have enjoyed my Christmas wrapping service, very polite, did not complain, joyful attitude, willing to accommodate each request. Best of all NO CHARGE! Each year my mother has visited Kansas for Christmas she has ended up wrapping our presents. Thank you so MUCH! One more thing checked off the list.

Double Digits

Happy 10th Birthday Konley! We are so thankful that we get to share this milestone with you. You have brought a lot of joy, laughter, and sparkle into our lives. We are very thankful that you are part of our family. Hope you have a wonderful, memorable day that is full of fun and surprises. We love you very much - Dad and Jennifer.