Tree Hunting

This year we had every intention of heading into the Santa Cruz mountains to cut down our Christmas tree.  After we were rained out twice, it became more important that we got A tree, and not where we obtained said tree. 

With that in mind, we went for a fun dinner out and then out to choose (not cut!) our tree.

To be honest, the kids seemed much more excited about the silly photo props and ride-on trolley (that DOESN'T move!), than picking the actual tree.

 

They did, however, enjoy watching the lower limbs be taken off and the tree stand put on.  Of course, Luke decided that they looked like perfect reindeer antlers!

 

 

 On our way home

Home with the tree



Happy, excited kids

Mandala Christmas show

This year it was Mia's turn to participate in Mandala's Holiday performance.  If you remember, Luke spent three years at Mandala and never once did any more than stand up on the stage and look around like everyone was just crazy.  We assumed, given Mia's personality, that she would be different ... but one can never be sure (I thought that by Luke's 3rd preschool show he would at least move his mouth!).

So, we had big expectations for Mia, and she delivered to some extent.  There certainly was not the showmanship that we see at home, but at least she stood up there and sang :)!  She looked darling, Mommy cried (of course), and Luke was a very proud big brother.

And ... the Christmas celebrations begin

We only were home from Cabo for one day before we dove right into celebrating the Christmas season.  It was actually really nice to have the holiday season to look forward to as we were ending such a wonderful week in paradise.

So, up first was the San Jose Country Club kids' Christmas party:

The season's first meeting with Santa - Mia was a bit unsure



 Luke, on the other hand, had no problem telling Santa what he wants this year:  "A rocketship"

(not sure exactly what his expectations are on that one ... we'll have to work on that)

Of course, there were fun little treats,

 and lots of sweets.



Daffy Dave entertained the kids after dinner and Santa.  As you can see, Luke and Mia thought he was just about the funniest guy ever!

I think that this one was all partied out by the end of the night - she didn't even notice that her headband was a bit out of place.

Thank you, Day and Paw, for treating us to such a fun evening again this year.  It was a great way to kick off the holidays!

Cabo 2012: The Food

If Luke's favorite part of Cabo is the pool, and Mia's favorite part is the beach, then my favorite part is the food.  Seriously, we can always look forward to a week of exceptional meals, often over some great live music.  We love visiting our favorite places, and also always look forward to trying new restaurants that have been recommended. 

On our way out to El Herradero

Mia was very grumpy, but Grandma managed to cheer her up

An old favorite:  Pancho's

 Mia enjoys the delicious local bakery treats

Our new favorite:  Flora Farms (it was so good that we came back again for date night)

 

We were able to go out one night for an adult-only dinner.  The kids stayed home with a babysitter from a great service that we have used in the past in Cabo.

 

Our last night at another favorite:  Cabo Surf

What a wonderful week full of relaxation, fun, delicious food, and family!