Taking it "Snow"

Saturday morning, Matt & I were so excited to show Kylie all the snow.  The Blizzard of 2009 they called it on the news, and it was just getting started.  We came downstairs with Kylie and threw open the curtains.  Kylie was in awe of the sight.  In her own words "Wow!  It's snow!  It's amazing!"

It continued to snow all day long, up until maybe 11 pm or so.  We ended up with 17 or 18 inches.  The weather kept us home all weekend, but we didn't mind.  It almost seemed like God was telling us to slow down and savor this moment, this age of wonderment, and the spirit of the holidays.  We built fires, drank hot chocolate, watched Elmo's Christmas Countdown (for the billionth time), and played lots.  We thoroughly enjoyed every minute of being snowed in.

Sunday came and the snow stopped falling.  So, we bundled Kylie up for her first snow experience.  I think Matt & I were eager with anticipation to bring her out there.  We had visions of snowmen and snowball fights...  but when we got outside, and as I started out into the snow, I heard Kylie's little voice say "No, Mommy!  Come back here!"  She wouldn't budge from the deck.  She said she was scared.  And who could blame her?  The stuff came up to her waist!  She couldn't move her legs!  I'd be pretty scared, too!  So, what did I do?  I plopped her right in the middle of it.  Daddy came next to her and so did Teddy.  We all started playing with the snow and making snowballs.  The snow was a bit to light and fluffy for snowmen, but Kylie found another way to enjoy the snow.

Matt valiantly took on the task of shoveling... and Kylie used her beach shovel to "help."

She eventually got comfortable enough with the snow that she found herself a nice little seat in the snow and cheered on her Daddy while he made a path from our door.

Sure, we didn't stay outside too long -- Kylie was soon pulling off her mittens and her hat kept coming off -- but it was enough to see the joy and excitement in Kylie's eyes.  And in the end, that's what it's all about... having fun.  Together.

Yesterday was good, but Today is even better

You know, there are times that I find myself in a daydream of yesterday's carefree days, only to be snapped out of it by Kylie calling saying something like "Mommy - more milk, please."  But tonight, I was reminded why those days of yesterday were good, but Today is even better. 

Last night we decorated the Christmas tree... the very first time we did so with Kylie's help.  She was so excited as we pulled out the special box that held the Christmas ornaments.  My mother would give us an ornament every year as we were growing up (a fabulous tradition that we've begun for Kylie).  Kylie's eyes were wide as she chose ever so carefully each ornament she wanted to hang on the tree.  I think one branch ended up with 4 or 5 ornaments, but let's just say the bottom part of our tree was very well decorated indeed.  I think it was the most fun we've had decorating the tree in years!  The "magic" is back in the holidays!