We got more snow last night! Of course Eli was excited to get out and play right away...we practically had to force him to eat some breakfast! The surprising thing was that after quite a bit of coaxing, Abby actually decided to go out, too! So all of us got bundled up and headed out for some fun.
Yes, that is an actual smile on Abby's face while outside in the snow! She also had a great time chasing Zoe around...Zoe loves playing in the snow!
Eli's favorite snow activities include making tracks...
throwing snowballs...
and building snowmen. He wasn't able to do this during our last snow because the snow was too dry and powdery. He was delighted to discover that this was great snowman-building snow.
After awhile it was time to come in and warm up, but the kids couldn't take their eyes off Eli's snowman.
After enjoying some hot chocolate we made popcorn and snuggled up together to watch Toy Story 3. 
Such a fun family day!!
Yes, that is an actual smile on Abby's face while outside in the snow! She also had a great time chasing Zoe around...Zoe loves playing in the snow!
Eli's favorite snow activities include making tracks...throwing snowballs...
and building snowmen. He wasn't able to do this during our last snow because the snow was too dry and powdery. He was delighted to discover that this was great snowman-building snow.
After awhile it was time to come in and warm up, but the kids couldn't take their eyes off Eli's snowman.
After enjoying some hot chocolate we made popcorn and snuggled up together to watch Toy Story 3. Such a fun family day!!
As you can see, she thinks they're pretty great too!
The funny thing is, this was actually Eli's idea! Ever since Abby got her puffy pink skirt for Christmas, he's been wanting to dress her up like Gabriella, a character from the show 
and, of course, opening LOTS of presents!
Santa was very good to them, as usual! Abby received a crib for her babies, as well as a new doll that she named Holly. Abby loves that Holly giggles or cries when you squeeze her! She has also been enjoying all the feeding and clothing accessories that she got for her babies.
Eli received exactly what he asked for: Mack (Lightning McQueen's hauler from the movie Cars). He actually received two different Macks (one opens up to become a play set) as well as Sally, DJ, and Doc Hudson (the other Cars characters on his wish list). Santa also surprised him with a remote control Lightning McQueen. We've been surprised that this hasn't gotten much use, but you'll see why in a moment.
Both kids received custom super hero capes from their cousin Lucas (made by the incredibly talented Aunt Elizabeth!)
Abby's cape topped off her fabulously true-to-self Christmas ensemble: new red fleece Christmas jammies, new snowflake sweatshirt, new sparkly tutu, and the Super Abby cape!
Eli spent most of the day (and the next and the next!) playing with his awesome new train; a remote control Polar Express!
We received tons more than what is posted here, but there just isn't space to include everything; please know that we appreciate each and every wonderful gift our family received!
As she continued opening gifts, she continued adding to her outfit...I love this girl's sense of style!
For the past three years our Advent celebration has included 
We watched the whole show from right beside this drummer...a perfect viewing spot!
And after the show, Eli took the stage himself for a moment!
I love how they seem to be discussing it here!
The confectionary creations were even more impressive this year than I've ever seen them! I loved these houseboats.
And this tree house was incredible...definitely a favorite of the kids'.
I'm always completely amazed by the incredible details!
We all had a great time examining and admiring the details and creativity!
