Christmas Story

Not so much kicking and screaming, but I definitely dragged them to get a family portrait done. I brought props, greens, a wreath, scarves. For a bunch of boys it was major eye roll time, but they knew better than to raise their protest flag. The photographer was great, very experienced and not even a little ruffled by 3 boys who kept cutting up during the whole thing.

I do love this picture. It was supposed to be sort of a joke, but I think it's sweet.

Playing in the Holidays

I just love the annual Tree Lighting event downtown. By this time of the season after competitions and football games, working the band booth, food shack, setting up displays and chaperoning, chilly evening practices ~ both parents and kids are about out of steam.

But this event is so cheery that I know the parents love it and the band members put on their Santa hats and have fun. They are the big kids now looking out on a sea of little expectant faces.

Can't get more charming than this. Santa rolls up in the firetruck and pulls the switch on the lights. Hundreds of people in the downtown clap. The band plays Christmas carols. All is right with the world.

Then off to a local church for cookies and cocoa. We were a little late. This table *was* filled with cookies ; ) For an hour I really felt like I was in a Hallmark movie. And by the way, I love those Hallmark holiday movies.