Merry Christmas!

Dearest Jackson & Colton,

After having the busiest December on record, we ended the year in total CHILL mode!!

We went to church with Grandpa and Grandma for Christmas Eve service.

And we took it easy on Christmas Day.

Y'all spent a lot of time playing outside with your newest toys in the final days of 2017.

Family Photos

Dearest Jax and Colt,

We continued the tradition of sending a photo card for the holidays this year.  After "winning" a photography session in your school's auction, we met the photographer at a nearby campsite and she quickly got some decent shots!

Decembering

Dear Colt and Jackson,

December seems to always have a lot going on but this year takes the cake!

We started the month by volunteering with the Salvation Army.  We joined some baseball teammates to ring the bell outside of a nearby Walmart.

We also spent an evening at the town's Nighttime Christmas Parade.  Colt, you were in the parade on a float with your scout troop.  Jax, we watched from the sidelines with the Vaughn Fam.

One of the best things we did all month was attend The Christmas Story, a performance put on by an area church.  Our seats weren't ideal yet the show still knocked our socks off!!!

Our neighborhood stepped up their game at this year's Christmas party!  In addition to the usual Santa Claus, they also had a photo bus!!!

Somehow, your soccer team also squeezed in one more 2017 tournament!?!?!

We had a triple date to celebrate Brandie's birthday.

We talked with THE big man at Bass Pro.

Our favorite horse carried our sleigh through Highland Village.

And we decorated cookies for jolly 'ol Saint Nick.

We all need to settle in for a long winter's nap!

November in South Carolina

Dearest Boys,

You boys stayed with Grandma & Grandpa while Dad & I went to NYC.  Then y'all boarded a plane with Grandma for South Carolina.  She took you to their time share since this was their last time to use it.

Y'all played at the local putt putt course.  

This seems to always be a favorite when on vacation at the beach?!?!

After I got home from New York, I went back to the airport so I could join y'all in Hilton Head!

  We took advantage of all that the area had to offer!

The resort really catered to children with so many activities!!

Of course, being steps away from the ocean was one of my favorite parts - even though the cold water wasn't very inviting!

After reading the book Wonder together, we waited anxiously for the movie to be released.  One rainy afternoon made for the perfect opportunity to enjoy the theater!

We also ventured away from the condo to visit Salty Dog, shop in Harbour Town, and climb to the top of the light house.  Here is the internet's pic of our excursion ;)

And here is our pic from the top : )

It was weird being away from Dad on Thanksgiving but quality time with you two & Grandma was pretty awesome!