Advent 2011

This year we did not have an Advent Calendar like we did last year. In spite of not having an "official" calendar, we decided to sporadically do Advent activities the last couple of weeks.

Christmas Lights

On the Denver Post website, there was a section that people could post where they have really decorated their yards with lights. On two different nights, we went out to view a couple different houses. The last time we went, it snowed and snowed and then snowed a bit more so we had to cut our time short.

Denver Courthouse

At the end of each Christmas light spectacular, we went to Menchies. Never been to Menchies? Come to CO and we will take you! It's a pay-by-the-pound frozen yogurt place where they tell you to "have a smiley night!".

Until now, I had never thought of taking a picture of my Menchies yogurt (maybe because I was gobbling it up). Hmm... I guess we will have to go get some more so that I can take a picture.

Made cookies for our

neighbors, friends and family

Elianna is very much into "helping" us in the kitchen when we cook. While we mixed up the cookies, we practiced counting. She did pretty good but it's probably a good thing we also kept count.

We made Snickerdoodles, Sugar Molasses, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip (cheat version from a bag) and Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies.

Living Nativity

This living nativity was hosted by a local Lutheran church and did a good job telling the Christmas story. It was a bit cold but then again it is December in CO.

Decorated the Christmas tree

Since it was so late in the Christmas season, we simply put up our fake, scrawny tree. It served its purpose and we don't have to worry about vacuuming up needles. There is a plus side!

Elianna enjoys going around to the different ornaments and saying "Hi!" She makes me smile!

Watched "Elf" while drinking eggnog

There are some things you have to introduce your children to at a young age. Two of them in one night - Eggnog and "Elf" - what memories are made of! Elianna loved the eggnog and after drinking her first 1/4 cup asked for more. And then asked for more but a parent has to save some for themselves draw the line somewhere.

Beth Moore did a 2 part series on "A Fresh Advent - The Divine Interruption". If you are looking for something to listen to and help prepare your heart for Christmas, this is a must listen!