The children have been a little loud and a bit messy lately so we built them in igloo and moved them in. Everyone is very satisfied with the new arrangement. I know that it seems a bit cold, but they have each other to keep them warm. I also bring them hot chocolate from time to time, so it's a win win for all of us.

Baking

Yesterday my helper and I made a cake for a friend's sprinkle.

I thought it turned out cute.

We received a huge amount of snow here, so the kids are home today. Hopefully the sprinkle is still on so I don't have to eat the cake myself.

the object of our affections

snow!

Gabbi has some "me" time.

This is what happens when the baby closes herself in her room

and the mommy chooses to keep making cookies in the kitchen.

She seems proud of herself,

but is worn out from all that messing up.

The Mullet

Gabbi's been sporting a bit of a mullet, so we are trying a new do.

Bam Bam!

Christmas/New Year's pictures

Bella and Bern checking out the doll house.

Gabbi likes Bern's xylophone.

Meet Riley, Bella's new dolly.

Reindeer food on Christmas eve.

The lobby of our hotel.

Fountain Square

The view from our hotel room.

This is the first year in a long, long time that we've had legitimate New Year's eve plans. A friend from college was married in Cincinnatti, and we had such a good time.

It was a lovely weekend away, and very much needed. The kids had a great time with all of the grandparents and we had some quiet, good food, and rest.