Goodbye 2013!

So long to a fun year!

A Very Sandy Christmas.

This year we had the opportunity to spend Christmas week on Kiawah Island, SC.  

It was the first time in over 12 years that we weren't home on Christmas day.

The weather was nice enough most days that we were able to play on the beach some and ride our bikes a lot.

We even got some fishing in. 

Thankfully, Santa knew where to find us so Christmas morning held the requisite surprises and fun. Disney Infinity, in particular, was/is a hit with the entire family.

One of Eliza Grace's gifts was a trip to the South Carolina Aquarium so we went to Charleston to do just that.

Testing the Bald Eagle nest. Will really put himself into the role of baby eagle.

  SHARK!!!

"So I says to him, I says, that's what I'm talking about!"

"Hahaha, that's a good one Fred!"

"Excuse me deary, this is a private conversation!"

Lemur food placed on top of observation area=up close fun!

In addition to the aquarium visit, which included a nice low country lunch at Fleet Landing, the kids also attended Kamp Kiawah a couple of mornings and attended a Kamp pool party at the ever-so-swanky Sanctuary resort one evening.

Regardless of the change of venue, we made sure to keep some of our most special Christmas traditions intact - including the making and consuming of pretzel kisses!

It was a really nice getaway and we're so thankful to my Mother for the opportunity to experience Christmas at the beach!

Gingerbread Houses.

Today we joined our good friends and neighbors, the Duguids and the Harloffs, for a festive evening, which began with decorating gingerbread houses.

Thanks to the Duguids for hosting a fun holiday evening for us all!

What Child is This

Our young violinist is working on Christmas music this week.

You'll Go Down in History (like George Washington!)

Eliza Grace helped lead her AHG Troop in Christmas carols this chilly evening.  

Love this organization and love these sweet, silly girls who are committed to becoming strong and loving women of God!