December 21, 2008

Solstice fun, welcoming the sun with S'mores

December 19, 2008

Guitar Hero III for two, anyone?

Today, the boys received an early shared Christmas gift -- a second guitar for Guitar Hero III. Just a little something to relieve the wrapped-gift angst of the week before Christmas, and they are very happy campers!

December 17, 2008

Today started with cookie making. Earlier in the week, we received a plate of cookies from our realtor. Dan discovered the mint pinwheel cookies and wanted the recipe. I made and colored the dough last night, then chilled it overnight.

It was just like play-doh time --
breaking up each color into 4 parts, then rolling them out.

Then twisted together ....

Sliced, flattened and sprinkled with sugar, ready for the oven.

They are very yummy cookies - so minty your mouth is cool when you eat one, and very pretty, too!

December 16, 2008

I spent much of yesterday concerned this would be my last picture with this camera. Right after I took it, I stepped into this enormous hole the kids dug in the yard last year, now filled with snow. I dropped the camera in the snow. Brushed off all the snow, but little bits of water were trapped behind the lens. It wouldn't focus, so it wouldn't take pictures. Then my sweetie suggested using the blow dryer on the camera lens. It worked, and my camera works again!!

On my windowsill this morning. We often let the cat in thru our bedroom window. Last night he was out in the snow and left these plaintive signs he wanted to be inside where it's warm.

December 15, 2008

Second snow.... same fence post as the first snow, almost 2" this time. It's been snowing lightly all day, and very cold. At least by Desert Southwest standards!

December 10, 2008

What happens when I take a bath and leave the boys to entertain themselves?
Last night it was fort building.

Front view

The view that greeted me as I entered the living room.

Fort construction materials included a clothes-drying rack, 2 bedsheets, 3 dining chairs and the living room couch.

December 9, 2008

First snow -- isn't that little star-shaped flake so cute?

Dan -- those are tiny snowflakes near his face

Andy on the trampoline in the snow

December 3, 2008

We went to the River of Lights show at the Botanic Gardens -- lots of beautiful light displays.

December 4, 2008

Dan
I'm not sure when this was taken. I found it on the camera while downloading newer pictures. I love Andy's smile in it, tho!