Christmas Morning {In Photos}

Hope you have recovered. We have, sort of.

{I've already ditched the tree...}

See You In The New Year!

At the Fire House

See the radiator just inside the door? It keeps that places extremely hot!

{Back to the fire house!} The day after Santa came to visit Lizzie's co-op took a trip the fire house. This visit was so the kids could play Santa themselves. Each child brought a toy for the Toys For Tots donation box. As they clutched their unwrapped gifts two firemen gave the kids a talk. Lt Bunn (who said  you can remember his name because all you have to do is think about a hot dog) was really great but in the middle of his spiel an alarm went off. The two men stopped what they were doing and zipped into the truck. It was the funniest/oddest thing. Two more men came running with one shouting, "Wait, we'll be back!". Then they rolled down the door and were off. As we had no idea how long they would be and it was really cold, I offered to take the kids toys and bring them back to the station later, when the firemen had returned.

I was so proud. Not one child cried about giving up their toys. I was worried Lizzie would be super crushed as her gift was one very soft pink and purple unicorn pillow pet... ohhh how she loves pink and purple. But she happily handed it over and asked if another little girl was going to love it. Yes, another little girl will love it. I am sure. And, there is a second one hiding in the trunk of my car so that my little girl can love it too.

When I came back to the fire station they wanted to know when the kids would come back. I told them we would wait till the spring. As Fire Engine #5 is the only truck at the station when a call comes, they go. It was amazing to see them in action: professional, courteous, and super quick. So we'll be back in the spring, when standing outside won't mean risking hypothermia.

Better Watch Out

Santa had a few problems with his sleigh during a test flight last weekend, thus he was in DC looking for some parts. Thankfully the DC Fire Department gave offer of an escort and a red sleigh, Fire Engine #5. While he was in town he decided to visit the children of Burleith, just to make sure they're being good.

Yes, once again I orchestrated a visit from Santa for the neighborhood. This year was tons of fun since DCFD helped us out. Santa and I met down at the fire house and got to see the inner workings (lots of guys watching shoot 'em up movies and dozing in front of their computers). The building is among the oldest fire stations in the district and has lots of charm, a photographers dream to photograph. It also has monster radiators that keep that place cooking. I asked if it was part of their training, to acclimate them or something.

Before visiting the kids Santa requested the guys do a joy run through Georgetown along M Street. He even convinced me to ride with them. It was seriously so much fun! I have never ridden in a fire truck. I guess I can add it to my list of life accomplishments. Santa (against code) sat on top of the truck (it went very slowly) and Ho-Ho-Ho-ed his way past holiday shoppers. It was so funny seeing the look on people's faces as they grabbed for their phones/cameras.

After the fun I went home to wait.... pretty soon we heard the sound of bells and Santa was at our door! Fire Engine #5 was parked out front and all the firemen came inside. It was awesome! Mahlon and Lizzie took it all in stride. Mahlon asked for Legos and Lizzie asked for a dolly and pink legos. I think Santa can accommodate both wishes.

Once again I am reminded of how very blessed we are. We live in a wonderful community that has proven to be a great spot for our little family. And the next day it only got better...

In the Spirit

So far the holidays have been more happy than hectic but there are moments... like when we drove out to Middleburg, VA for the big Christmas Parade and I, ahem, had the wrong day. No matter. Santa was still on hand. Mahlon is still a bit leery of the man in red. Really, it is weird so I can't blame him. Lizzie loves all of it though and throws herself into each new situation with boundless glee. From parties to ice-skating, holiday concerts, and the Mini Nut we've been getting into the spirit big time around here... which explains why I haven't been around this space. Most of my holiday shopping is done, now it's on to some hand-made items just because...not because I have to but because I want to. So far so good...

Tis the Season for Glitter

before the party

during the party

after the party

We were scheduled to have an ornament making party Thanksgiving weekend but Lizzie's ear infection/bronchitis derailed us to the following week. The change of plans actually worked to my advantage (more time to plan/dread). The kids had Friday off of school and the weather was mild so the glitter and paints could be done outside. Not that it mattered. The house was covered in sparkles--and faux snow. We had a fun group of friends over and as the sun dipped below the horizon (and the temps plummeted) the moms moved it inside to sit with the wine while the kids watched holiday movies in the basement. Oh how I love this time of year!

DC Living: The National Christmas Tree

We were 4 of 10,000 to receive Standing Room Only tickets for the lighting of the 2011 National Christmas Tree. The day took a bit of strategy on my part but was so worth it. Lizzie and I accompanied Mahlon and his class on a field trip to a holiday play downtown in the morning. We bailed on the class and picnicked on the mall for lunch. The weather was perfect, bright sunny skies, no wind and just a slight chill. After lunch we headed to the Sculpture Garden to watch the ice-skaters and pretend skate ourselves. I refused to take the two of them on my own but let them freely 'skate' -slide and twirl- on the smooth rocks circling the rink.  Then it was a quick detour to the National Archives for a potty break. I sprung for a pedicab ride to the White House as Lizzie was starting to get heavy. I didn't bring a stroller with me. I only brought my wallet and phone which I tucked into my pockets in an effort to travel light. Chris and our friend from Sicily met up with us just before the ceremony. It was awesome even if the new tree is a bit small (and unimpressive). Afterwards we met friends at the Willard for drinks (and pizza) in the lobby where we were treated to a choral reception. Then it was back on the public bus for the ride home. It was a big full day that was perfect in every way. I honestly think it may have been one of the top three days of 2011. Thank You Washington D.C.