A boy and his dog

Gumbo is the best dog. He has always been so gentle with the kids. Landry loves him and always shares his leftovers, so Gumbo loves him back. I can't imagine not having this animal in our family. Landry calls him "daw-gee" and tries to bark and growl at him. I love our dog.

Our Friend Owen

Our Elf on the Shelf is named Owen. Whoever came up with this idea is a genius! We have had Owen since 2006. He comes to the house the day that we put the tree up. This is one of my favorite Christmas traditions because it is so amusing. I can't understand how the kids actually believe that this little elf doll flies to the North Pole every night to report to Santa about their behavior. I almost feel guilty about it. The other day the kids wouldn't listen to us when we asked them to do something. Bryan got angry and had them go up to Owen and tell him that they were sorry and they were going to make better decisions. Bryan and I were standing behind them trying not to crack up. Our poor children were talking straight to him with the saddest, most guilty faces. When they find out this was all a hoax it might just be more upsetting then the whole "Santa secret." Owen, thanks for the fun!

Santa Brunch

Every year we go to Stonebriar Country Club for the Santa brunch. Since we get to see the big guy there, I get lucky and avoid the mall for Santa pictures. The kids were ready with their lists which they worked very hard on. Gracie even illustrated hers. Here is what they are wishing for:

Brady: a punching bag, DS games, Lego Helicopter and other Legos, and a DS case

Gracie: Lalaloopsie with blue hair, Barbie stuff, frosty doll, and DS games

Luckily, they didn't ask for anything outrageous so they will probably be satisfied on Christmas morning!

Christmas Cards

I love sending Christmas cards every year. The process of getting the photos for the cards isn't always so easy though. I remember the days when it was only Brady and I could get the perfect shot of him and send it out for everyone to admire. Now I have three little bodies to try to get to cooperate for one picture. We had amazing family pictures taken this summer at the beach. Landry has changed so much though so I wanted to get an up to date shot. This morning I bravely got the kids ready and headed to the park. With help from daddy, we ended up getting a cute picture of the crew. Merry Christmas!