The girls took over the tree trimming responsibilities this year. Without help from me they got the tree from the attic, assembled it, fluffed out the branches, put on the lights and popcorn strands and hung all the ornaments.

My favorite little Christmas elves!

The many layers of bathroom wallpaper that have been excavated. I’m happy to say that all of it will be safely hidden away until the next bathroom renovation. May they bring happiness to the next ones who set eyes on them!

Secret Christmas crafting has begun in earnest. Doors are being shut and signs are up around the house warning others to knock first before entering. I love their ideas and their initiative. I can’t wait to see their faces on Christmas morning!

There are big things happening in our bathroom. These fancy tiles are just the beginning!

While not the most technically composed photo, I love the feel of this shot of Esme on the tank. Who needs the playground when you have a tank?

A beautiful cover for a beautiful story. The girls and I are enjoying their first reading of the Secret Garden.

Lego house and photograph of said house, both by Esme.

Before they headed back to their respective parts of the country, we visited the Old North Bridge with Corey, Marsha and Maureen. No Redcoats were sighted (besides Mom!) but we had a lovely time in Concord.

Stringing popcorn and cranberries for the tree. One of my favorite annual activities and now our newest family members have tried their hands at it!

(Roller Palace, that is!)

It takes a little something extra to try new things as an adult that your kids are already proficient at. Good work, Peter!