NYE

It is New Year's Eve and we had a quiet night in with the Buneta Family.   

Happy New Year everyone!  It was a great 2014 and we can't wait to see what 2015 brings.

Of course, Connor did manage to stay up to see the ball drop, again.

Chicago So Fun

We spent the morning playing in a gigantic gymnasium which was brand new and beautiful.  Adults and kids got to try out all the equipment.  It showed us how fearless and strong the kids are...also proved how old the adults are getting.

Then we headed off for lunch and a round of glow in the dark mini-golf.  Luckily we were all still talking after our game and everyone got a good laugh.

There is one house that Sydney and Izzy refer to as the "Feliz Navidad House" in Chicago that Uncle Scott insisted we had to go see.  He was totally right.

This house was complete with a Ferris wheel, zip line and so many lights it was unbelievable.

Then, we celebrated Christmas with the Conns.  There was a lot of love shown to all.

All the grandchildren together was fantastic to see.  They were so well behaved and really had fun together.  It was such a fun trip and so worth it to see all those smiles.

Chicago Zoo Day

We were so lucky to be able to plan a trip to Chicago to celebrate the holidays with the whole Conn Family.  We arrived to the new house and watched as the kids just played and had a great time.  We were treated to a delicious meal and lots of family time.  

The next morning it was cold but we decided to head off to the Chicago Zoo.  It may have been cold but it didn't effect us or the animals.  The kids were so happy to be together.

The mama kangaroo definitely held some happy kids.

Garrett took the opportunity to discuss animals with the zoo specialist.  He informed her of many of his interesting facts about giraffes. She was very impressed with his knowledge.

All the men were very intrigued by how close we were to the giraffes.

Quick photo opp.

Everyone had to get into the act.

Let's go polar bear - bring us to Santa.

One of the best exhibits was the monkeys and gorillas.  We watched a family of monkeys with three babies and I could honestly say we could have stayed there for hours.  We even got to see baby Nora the new baby gorilla.  Then on our last stop was to say goodbye to the lions.

The whole Zoo was decorated for Christmas with singing Christmas trees and lots of holiday cheer.

What a happy and fun day!

Christmas 2014 - It's the most Wonderful Time of the Year

As a parent, there is nothing more exciting than watching your kids on Christmas morning.  Their faces full of excitement when they walk into the family room.  The pure joy is overwhelming.  

Santa left Emily a doll house.

First stop, is the kids Christmas tree and the stockings.

Frozen was a big theme this year.

Someone was very happy to find a doll house.

Let's stop posing for pictures...I want to open the presents...please!!!

Princess Celestia

Connor and Garrett found a basketball wrapped in the mud room.  They threw on their sneakers and ran out the door to find a new basketball hoop.  Of course, we had a family game in our pajamas in the rain and cold.

It was a very happy and festive household this year.  The kids even sat down and ate the filet mignon dinner that I cooked.  Merry Christmas to all.

Christmas Eve Traditions

If there is one things the kids have inherited from me, it is their belief in establishing and keeping traditions.  Every Christmas Eve we head out for Japanese food and then tour the town looking for the best Christmas light display.  Of course, we don't really need to look far as Daddy's lights are definitely the best.

When we get home, we get ready for bed and change into our Christmas pajamas.  This year the kids all decided to open their presents that they got each other.  They did such a great job picking out meaningful and thoughtful gifts for each other.  It was really sweet.  They also showed each other gratitude and lots of love upon opening their presents.

The presents were open and the Night Before Christmas had been read.  Now they are hurrying off to bed.

Christmas Fun

The weekend before Christmas and all through the house - Falahees were stirring definitely not quiet like a mouse.  The stockings were hung with great care because Nana, Grandpa, Uncle Kevin and Aunt Ellen would soon be there.  

We celebrated Christmas all weekend and there was no shortage of smiles and laughter.

Of course, there were so many presents.  I didn't think Santa would need to even come visit.  It was a great weekend of food, fun and family.  I think the pictures speak for themselves.

Could Emily be any cuter?

Basketball

Garrett played basketball with the YMCA during the months of November and December.  Their team was really good.  Garrett was an impressive dribbler and showed off all his fast footwork on the court.

All of the boys had fun.

He loved playing with Mason, Devon and Andrew and can't wait for the NBA to start in January.

Seussical the Musical

Garrett's first grade class put on a play featuring three of the stories by Dr. Seuss.  Let me be honest right up front.  I thought this was going to be a small presentation in the classroom.  Well I was completely wrong.  The play occurred in the Elementary school auditorium and was a very impressive show.  It lasted about 45 minutes and was non-stop action.

Garrett was the Grinch.  He did a fantastic job with his lines and made the perfect Grinch.

We were then invited to the classroom to see the many accomplishments from all the kids.  My favorite was Garrett's project of what he wanted to be when he grows up.  In case it is hard to read, let me summarize his answers.
When I grow up, I will be an: Accountant
To do this job, I need to know: mathematics
I want to be this because: my mom and dad do it.
I will need to wear: a tuxedo
3 thing I will need are: calculator, a smart board and a computer
This job is important because: I need to keep my family happy

The picture below is Garrett in a suit and all the green around him is G throwing money in the air.

What a great day and such a fun celebration!

Black Shirt

Another test aced!  Garrett was tested for his black shirt today and he really impressed Master Tom.  

Was there really any doubt.  Congratulations!  

Needham Green Division Victory

Coach Vic and Daddy held a party for the Needham Green team to celebrate a fantastic season.  The kids received conference championship shirts and trophies.

They should be so proud of their trophy because they really earned it!