Lion King

Today we took the kids to see The Lion King Musical. It was AMAZING!!!! I don't think I can write enough to do it justice. From the opening act we were all on the edge of our seats in awe. The costumes were incredible like true Disney fashion. Jackson lucked out and had an amazing seat. At the opening he had an amazing antelope character next to him singing and at the beginning of the 2nd act a super talented singer was flying birds and signing. He managed to get a high five and I managed to get a death glare look from Caden because I had my camera out. In my defense the lights were not all out and she was right next to him!!!!
I hope the kids never forget this show and continue to love to go to the theater. I have so many fond memories of my parents taking me when I was young.

My Heart is Full

Yesterday and today are those days you don't want to forget. We spent most of yesterday unboxing, sorting, and organizing toys for the big Mission Solano event on Christmas Eve. Today the kids were able to see who they were helping. They saw where all the toys they donate go and saw the families they were blessing. The best part was seeing the kids in the back finding just the perfect present for the boy or girl out front. They had good eagle eyes and were on it looking for the Shopkins and Pokemon requests. It made my heart want to burst when they would up and run and tell me they found the perfect gift for them. When we left the kids saw the crowds in line to go and get a coat. It was hard for them to wrap them minds around. I hope they grow up realizing how blessed they are and continue to be the hands and feet of Jesus and serve others. I couldn't have been more proud of my tribe and all my friends helping.

Obsessed

I am kind of obsessed with my birthday present! I am having so much fun changing it up for the holidays and Instagram is a wealth of ideas. Here are two of my Christmas favorites so far. I think I may not change it until after Christmas and start working on a New Year's one.

Old Saint Nick

 Much to the confusion of my kiddos we rushed out of school and changed into some Christmas jammies in the van eager for a surprise. They thought I was crazy until they spotted their cousins Hailey and Jailynn in pj's too. We lucked out and got to Santa's workshop before the rush. In fact since no one was behind us in line they let us spend A LOT of time with Santa - maybe too much! Caden started asking questions. That boy I think is putting things together. This year he wouldn't let me read his letter to Santa because why would I need to read it and today when Santa asked what he wanted he said,"Santa, I sent you a letter. You should know." YIKES!!!
The kids finally got settled and we snapped some cute pictures. I am betting by next year Hailey and Jailynn are totally going to know what is going on.
After pictures I took Caden to go buy some toys for the Toy Drive. We have been working on things to do to fill our Giving Manger and hearing what the kids have done and what they want to do just makes my heart explode. We had already donated toys to the fire station, but Caden knew they were collecting toys at his school for a family. He was so sweet and really thought about what certain things kids those ages would want. He has the sweetest heart. He also politely pointed out things that perhaps he might like too.

Sharks and Dory

We loaded the kids up in the van and headed to San Jose for a fun night with Uncle Jon, Aunt Rachel, Esther, and Ruth. We arrived and were all so excited that Pizza My Heart was for dinner. We have carb overloaded to prepare for week ahead of giving them up. The boys took off after dinner and walked to the Shark Tank. How cool is it that they live close enough to walk there?!?! No fighting traffic or parking- Amazing!!! The girls hung out for some girl talk, popcorn, and Finding Dory. After the movie and game we got all the kids situated in beds and enjoyed some more wine and adult conversation. We Yelped the best donut shop around and Daddy/Uncle Chris was on a mission in the morning to find them. It was such a fun night. I love the memories these kids are making. It makes me want to start counting down for another cousin trip to Sunriver!