360 Chicago

Despite the fact that we take the boys to Chicago at least once a year, we have never gone to the top of the Hancock or Willis Tower. We gave the boys the choice, and they opted for the Hancock Building because of its 360 degree views. It was very cool to look out over the city. I'm glad we finally did it!

A little nervous on the way up.

Looking North

Looking South

Navy Pier

Snow Day

The boys and I woke up to a fun surprise... SNOW DAY! But, a little while later, we had a not-so-fun surprise... FALLEN TREE! The ice and heavy snow was too much for our poor decorative pear tree near the corner of our driveway. It split into three pieces. Two large sections completely collapsed and the other section is not salvageable (according to the tree guy that came out to take a look). Other than that, however, we had a nice day. We baked some cookies in the morning, made waffles, and read some holiday books. Then we went outside so I could shovel while the kids played - in the center of the yard, far away from all trees. When we came inside we made hot chocolate and then baked gingerbread boys. We played a few games in the afternoon before Will had to head to hockey.

So pretty!

So sad.

Happy Thanksgiving

We had a nice Thanksgiving dinner in Grand Rapids with Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt Mara, and Uncle Ken. After dinner, the boys helped Grandma and Grandpa decorate their Christmas tree.

Christmas Tree Day

Friday was our annual "Christmas Tree Day." We met our friends in Rockford at Hart's Tree Farm. After cutting down the perfect tree, we went into town for lunch at the Corner Bar. Then it was home to decorate the tree. It is officially the holiday season!

Random Fun

Here are some fun things that have been going on...

Donuts for Dads

First Snowman

Gingerbread Turkeys

Second Snowman

Hockey Team Photos

Sherlock

Santa at the Greenhouse?

Fourth Grade Read-in

Train Day

The boys had the day off from school so it was Train Day! They were up bright and early and started decorating their little tree that stands in the middle of the tracks. We decided to set them up in our bedroom this year so we didn't have to move all the legos. It will also be nice to see the snow outside while they play. After the tree was decorated, the boys took turns adding cars to the little train (Lionel) and taking it for test runs around the track. Unfortunately, we ran into some trouble with the big train (Bachmann) so we had to run to the Hobby Shop to have the wire re-soldered. It was a quick fix and we were able to set up the big train when we got home. Grandpa wasn't able to join us this year but we did Facetime with him so he was able to see the trains running.

Feast of Favorites

The first graders had their "Feast of Favorites" today during their lunch. They have been learning about the food groups and everyone signed up to bring something in: fruits, vegetables, grains, meats, dairy and fats/sweets. Alex brought in a big bowl of red grapes. Each classroom also made hats for one of the four main food groups. Alex's class was the meat group and made adorable turkey leg hats.