Getting in the holiday mood

We were really festive for Halloween (having the party at our house encouraged us to go all out) and felt Christmas deserved equal attention.  Elena captured the tree in a new perspective for us.  This is the area she decorated.This year Elena got to attend the Nutcracker for the first time!  We got dressed up for the occasion (even though it was just a school performance) and had a picture taken in front of the fully decorated Christmas tree.  Seeing the Nutcracker was also Auntie’s birthday present.  Elena’s favorite part of the show was the costumes and when Clara visited the foreign countries.  She thought those dances were more lively. With Grandma’s help, Elena fit all the presents around the tree.  Now there is no where for the kitties to nap!Elena did not help make any of the Christmas chains, but she did hang up the artwork. Auntie and Grandpa created this tree with lights.  The ornaments are by Elena.  They are from a scratch kit and she enjoyed using the little stick to create various designs. Our Christmas card display.  Zachy and Elena both loved the animated snowmen this year.  Zachy had too much fun with them in Elena’s opinion, she kept turning them off so they wouldn’t make noises!  Zachy caught on quick and learned where the on/off switch was so he could turn them back on.