A Christmas Story: Chapter One

We just returned from the best Christmas vacation ever! It was one big action packed coast to coast trip to Florida. (Florida's coast's) In fact, we crammed so much in I'm going to have to break this up into pieces!

We began the trip by flying into Jacksonville so John could do a little work while we were in town. It only took a few minutes for the hotel staff to realize that this was no ordinary family and that we were there to party! I think the decibel level was raised a few notches when we checked in.

While John attended meetings, I took the chitlins to the Jacksonville Zoo. We had a great time checking out the animals and even more fun seeing the locals dressed for a blizzard in 60 degree weather!
Here is my Max feeling right at home near the Monkey exhibit. Do you think he needs a haircut?

Lastly, I finally figured out firsthand why making bets is a stupid idea. I love to make silly yet safe bets with the boys like I bet you can't brush your teeth and put on your pj's in under a minute. Well this time my bad betting habits came back to bite me. I bet Jack $20 he couldn't catch this tiny little lizard. As this pic shows I owe him some Benjamin's and will not be placing any bets with him anytime soon. (note to self: remember that in FL, the wild animals think it is winter, so they move a million times slower this time of year.)

Next Chapter.....heading to Orlando where the real fun and excitement begin.

Jacks big night

My oldest had his first swim meet last week and performed brilliantly! I think I might have been more nervous than he was which is not normal. Jack is usually a big ball of nerves about anything and everything, but he did great. He competed in three event with kids ranging from 6 to 9. He took 5th in the 50 freestyle, 3rd in backstroke, and 3rd in the 100 freestyle.

Here is my boy brandishing one of his ribbons.



Enjoying some celebratory pizza with his proud Pops. Way to go Jack, we are proud of you!

This is for the grandparents:

(he is in lane 5)

Max for hire - 2.0

Last year Max specialized in home decor. This year he has branched out into the world of personal stylist. If you find yourself short on styling time this holiday season, give Max a call. He would be more than happy to shop and dress any little girl you have in your family. He specializes in matching bows and socks. He is excellent at making your baby feel beautiful and like a princess during the whole process.

Another cute ensemble brought to you by Maxwell Designs ltd.

Quote of the Week

Max never ceases to crack me up. And I quote: Satan is evil, he will get clothes for Christmas.

Doesn't that pretty much sum it up? Boys hate getting clothes for Christmas. So watch out, if you are naughty like Satan, you might find yourself opening up a bunch of clothes in a couple weeks!

The hazards of crawling backwards

I love that almost anytime I leave the room or take my eye off of this sweet little thing, she gets herself into the craziest spots! Today I was putting laundry away and heard a scared whimper from Sadie. I had to search for a minute because she had crawled under the bed and got stuck! (I actually had to lift up the blanket to find her and take the pic!) I have to admit that I ran to get the camera and made her wait there even though she was a little frightened. Bad, bad mommy!