Boy is it cold outside! But even still, going to Hersheypark with my daughter, sister and niece has become a tradition we all love, not to mention the delicious meals at the Chocolatier and sweet treats at Chocolate World. 😋
Something my family looks forward to is getting a Christmas tree, but what made this year a little different was the hike in price! It went from $80 to $120! 😳 My daughter and I have the tradition of naming our tree and settled on Big T Money this year because of the price!
Today, my daughter along with 57 third graders did presentations on the United States of America. About a month ago, each student selected a state to investigate and find out facts to share for this special day. Quinn excitedly told me, “I picked Michigan because Daddy went to University of Michigan!”
Though she worked on the project independently in school, my husband and I occasionally asked her random questions about Michigan to make sure she was prepared. We discussed ideas for her outfit, she helped locate images for me to iron on her shirt. Her dad let her borrow his University of Michigan hat and “Michiganopoly” game.
We both proudly came wearing our navy blue and gold to support Quinn, and she did not disappoint. I noticed that quite a few parents stopped by to hear her presentation as I circulated around the room to hear about other states from different children. I’m so proud of Quinn and so glad my husband and I were able to be there for her.
When I asked my daughter what she enjoyed most about Christmas yesterday, she said that she loved getting presents, but it made her feel good to give presents too because she loves seeing how happy people are as they open gifts. But she also said getting to spend time with family was something she really enjoyed.
Last year, we were stayed at home for Christmas as Covid restrictions were in full swing, there was limited vaccines and it was highly recommended that people limit their interactions to just their immediate family. With the Omicron variant on the rise, we may find ourselves back under restrictions as it continues to make its way to more people.
It’s times like this that I’m glad we have a relatively small family and that we’re all taking precautions to remain safe. While no one knows for sure what will happen in the days or months to come, just like Quinn, I’m so glad I got to enjoy the presence of my family for Christmas.
It seems like more people than usual are struggling to feel festive or have holiday spirit. It’s times like this that I’m grateful for my eight year old daughter and our year and a half old toy poodle who constantly lift my spirits during this time of the year.
They definitely keep me merry, especially Quinn as she opened her gifts this morning displaying appreciation for each one.
On the Seventh Day of Christmas, My Daughter Gave to me… A Big Smile Having a Mini Me. I’m so Grateful my eight year old still loves dressing alike, especially around the holidays.
On the Sixth Day of Christmas, My Daughter Gave to me… A Fun and Memorable Picture with Santa. Last year, was the first time in six years that Quinn did not get a picture with Santa. It wasn’t because she didn’t want to, but the Covid restrictions prevented it.
So this year, she was very excited to see Santa in person and to bring along her little brother and furry best friend, Zack. We both were surprised at how well he did. I was probably just as excited as Quinn to see Santa and take a picture once more.
There’s something magical and memorable about interacting with him and hearing his jolly voice in person. I’m so glad we were able to continue one of our Christmas traditions this year.
Yesterday, my daughter and I had a great holiday adventure at Six Flags with friends and had a terrific time. Though there was a chill in the air, it wasn’t extremely cold and didn’t stop Quinn and her friend from getting on rides high in the sky embracing all of that open air.
Though Christmas is still twenty days away, taking pictures, seeing all of the twinkling lights in the night’s sky, enjoying each other’s company, hearing the girls laugh and happily run to the different rides while my friend and I sipped on hot cocoa definitely put us all in the holiday spirit. It’s moments like this that make the great adventure of parent hood magical and memorable.
Yesterday, my sister, niece, daughter and I all went to Six Flags Great Adventure for a good time. It was packed! The crowd was enormous! Even the Flash pass line had over an hour wait, but we didn’t care. We were there for some outdoor fun. Though we didn’t get on many rides due to the crazy lines, just walking around the amusement park, doing a little trick or treating in the kids’ section and enjoying the atmosphere was enough to put a smile on my daughter’s face. Sometimes, that’s all we need. 🎃😊