There's No Place Like Home for the Holidays

Yes, yes, I know.  Christmas was forever ago.  I promise these will be the very last pics--it's time to move on.  In my defense, Mother Nature blessed us with a huge snowstorm this morning, so it sorta feels like winter just arrived.

As much fun as we had exploring the Big O over Christmas, our very best holiday memories were made right at home.  Six people cousins plus a pug--it just doesn't get any better.

Hang in there, Anders!  Pictures won't last forever.

Speaking of Anders, here are some of my favorite pics of the little man.  Crayon time!

Snuggle time.

Smile time.

Naturally he saves his very best smiles for Mama...

...and for Diet Coke.

Moving on to an older crowd, Annika and Eila were peas in a pod.  Don't you love the matching art smocks NomiAnn made them?

Sharing a show before bed.

Next up, story time on Papa Kay's lap.

Zoe joins the fun.

With plenty of extra space, Anders hopped on too.

Help, I'm squished!

Eila and Annika can commiserate about having their hair done, especially when it's little ponies.

Here's Brooklyn in her happy spot--making noodles with her brand-new pasta maker.

And now for the happiest place of all--playing Pie Face!   So why doesn't anyone look pleased?  Good luck, Adam!

Callie's next in line.

Papa Kay takes his turn facing the cream.

Yup, definitely need a bath after that mess.

Next fun project, making snakes with our gingerbread playdough.  Jason's comment, "Is that a slug?"

The snowman's a bit cuter, but not nearly as original.

Puppy love.

Puppy's tired.

Batman meets cyclops.

For New Year's Eve, we indulged in cheese and chocolate fondue.  Absolutely delicious, but it may take me a year to work off the extra calories.

On New Year's Day, we invited a few families over for soup and pie.

We enjoyed getting to meet some new baby friends.

Since the Wilhoits were back in Washington, we unabashedly stole their idea for a popcorn bar.

Plenty of sweet deliciousness for every age.

Yes, the saying is absolutely true.

There's no place like home for the holidays. Thanks one last time, NomiAnn and Papa Kay, for making us all so welcome.