Christmas Eve

 We started the day by visiting the windows at Macy's downtown.

 This is the great tree in the Walnut Room where we had lunch.

 We decorated some cookies...

 ...and snacked on everyone's favorites...

 ...before revealing the location of our upcoming winter getaway.  Hint: look at Poppie's hat.

Finally, it was time to feast!

Even Haley ate a great meal!

 Aunt Stephanie and Mommy were downgraded to the kiddie table, but it was a lot of fun.

An absolutely perfect day!

Who needs parents...

...when you have grandparents?!?














Mommy and Daddy are enjoying a rare night out downtown. Thanks, guys!!!

Lunch at Bobo's house

 Don't be sad, Haley...

...Bobo made a special lunch for you!  Sauerkraut and beans, who knew?  Haley liked it.

 The girls made Bobo a special book for Christmas.

 Thank you, Bobo!!!

Papa's birthday

 Stephie was all about helping Papa open his birthday presents.

"See, Papa, I made this card for you!'

 Haley enjoyed playing with the musical card instead.

 Rudolph cupcakes!

 "These cupcakes are SO GOOD, Julie!"

Happy birthday, Papa!  Thanks for letting us crash your party!

Christmas for Daddy and Cosley Zoo

 Daddy got to open his gifts a week early in order to have them to use on actual Christmas.  The girls were of course eager to assist.

 They also visited the Festival of Lights at Cosley Zoo.

 A pretty way to enjoy a relatively balmy December!

Children's Museum with Daddy

 This nice lady's name is Elizabeth.  For some reason Stephie was terrified of her.

Whoa...4 Haley's...4 times the trouble!

 It was 45 degrees today (warm!), so the girls hit up the Gnome Hunt in the arboretum.

 No gnomes here...

 ...or here...

 ...or there...

 Look, a gnome!

Breakfast with Santa

 We visited the Glen Ellyn Newcomers' breakfast with Santa.  Haley feasted on Christmas cookies (at least five big ones!)...

Stephie was partial to the hot chocolate.  She also liked sitting next to Noah!

 More cookies!

 Haley and Mrs. Claus:

 Haley again wasn't too sure of the big guy...

 ...but Stephie warmed up to him this time.

 Later we attempted to go to a free showing of A Christmas Story at the Glen Art theater.  We made it 28 minutes...not too bad!