Our baby is growing up - - too fast

Rylee moved into a toddler bed today. We let her help set it up and pick out her sheet set in hopes that she would take to it well. She cried a little the first nap but ever since has loved it. She still hasn't fully realized that she can get up whenever she wants. I have found her several times awake just sitting in her bed. She is just so cute isn't she?

SLEDDING

Sledding over Christmas break was great. It got warm enough for all of our snow to melt half way through our time off together so we only got out once but had soooooo much fun. Elizabeth did everything by herself, Cierra liked to go down with Daddy, and Rylee just kept saying, "Elizabeth like it, Cierra like it, Daddy like, Rylee no like it." I have to give her credit, she did try once and I accidently kicked a bunch of spray up in her face - no more after that. She did love being outside; just refused to get on another sled. Once Cierra and Matt went down and then started going up a mound of plowed snow. Cierra was at the tip of the sled so when Matt stopped at the end, she just plopped over the little hill. At first alarmed we quickly were relieved to hear nonstop giggling. It was a great day in the snow.

We are potty training

Yes, we are potty training. Elizabeth received a Baby Alive potty training doll for Christmas. She is so excited but I have to admit the little one is a little creepy. She talks and tells you not to forget to wipe!

Christmas Day

This year we spent Christmas Day at home. It was a special treat for the kids to be able to open their presents and then play with them. We were able to just spend time with them and each other. It was a great day.

Christmas Eve

We spent Christmas Eve day with Matt's sister and family along with Grandma and Grandpa.  It was nice to have all 11 grandchildren playing together.  It didn't take long and batman was getting a ride from my little pony!  Despite the cold, snowy weather it was well worth the trip.  It can not be said enough how happy we are that the Nicholsons are so close.

Matt is a Master

Matt graduated with his masters degree from Western Illinois University today. His degree is in law enforcement administration. We are so proud of him. Unfortunately my sister, Ronna, got married at the same time and the girls and Andi were in the wedding so we were not able to watch Matt walk. Nick went with him for support and Grandma and Grandpa met them there. We were all supposed to meet up later at the reception but the weather did not permit. It was a long day for all and although for the day Matt was overshadowed, none of us felt that way in our hearts. We are all so proud of the work he has done - WAY TO GO!

Snow Storm

We woke up to 9 inches of snow today with another 4 to fall during the day. School was off

and the girls were excited. Rylee wanted to go out so badly - she would not take no for an answer. I got them bundled and off they went. It was all good until Rylee's boot came off. Nick was quick to the rescue.