Christmas Catch-Up

 we so rarely see her asleep - that this was picture worthy! She fell asleep during books at bedtime! 

 Every Westminster child is highlighted as "artist of the month"- Imogene's turn in December!

 We had a wonderful time surprising the girls with a trip to see Sesame Street Live. Lily said that even though it was really a surprise for Imogene (since she's too big for SS) - she had a great time. We all did! 

 Lily had  a Monday off in December, so we went with friends to see ICE at the Gaylord Hotel at the National Harbor. It was fascinating. But freezing inside (2 degrees to be exact) and Imogene was really freaked out by the ice statues. They both Loved the Ice Slides though! 

 Perhaps the high-light of the school year to this point, Lily's Hip Hop performance. She had a blast and really, really knew her stuff. We LOVED every minute of it. 

 Imogene's Christmas Party at school.

 Her favorite thing - the "happy hearts" prayer! 

 Showing off the cookie she made and decorated! 

 I cannot count the number of hugs and "Merwy Chriwsmas" she gave out that day! Such a loving girl.

 OF COURSE P loved the hugs!!!

 One for the Burke too! 

 Christmas isn't complete without a trip to see Santa. Lily decided tonight that the Santa we see is in fact the one and only. He's that good. Such a dear, sweet man. He makes everyone believe. 

 He rubs his nose and makes it snow inside!!!

December Fun

 We took our letters to Santa to Macy's - and they donated a $1 for each to the Make a Wish foundation. We had lots of fun!

 That says, "I want a Castle Tent."

 The tree-trimming was a family affair, and Lily was a huge help. I'm so glad she had as much fun as I do decorating the tree!

 A sheep for the Christmas Pageant. She did a great job, and had so much fun. I think she'll be up for doing choir with the church in January. She learned that she CAN do it, and it's fun! She told me afterwards, "Mom, people really thought we did a great job. And I really was inspired by myself!" I think she really liked being part of that group performance. 

Maybe she has the Brown-girls theatre gene?

 She had fun - despite the hands on the face pose here.

 She liked wagging her tail. 

 Imogene was very proud of her sister! 

 Lucy was not so pleased with her part in the performance. Next year they can be angels I think.

 We are decorated for the best time of the year!!! 

She Noticed

Today when Imogene was getting ready for school I asked her to go get ready to put her shoes on. She asked if she needed her brace, which I said yes, please. And she didn't fuss at all. And when we were putting it on she looked at me and said, "Everybody not wear brace at school." Her face wasn't sad or upset, and it wasn't happy or proud either. It was just the announcement that she knew it wasn't the same for other kids. I was sure to tell her that she was so, so special to everyone and the brace just helped her run and jump and how special she truly is. But I cannot tell you in words how much my heart hurt with that simple little sentence. Our sweet little Imogene. Again, I know that we are blessed, but sometimes it just stinks the card she drew.

Visions of Sugar Plums

  

We took the girls to see the Nutcracker ballet today, performed by the studio where Lily takes ballet. It was really fabulous. We were all really impressed - and had such a great time. The girls both did wonderfully, even if Lily asked 1000 questions. (Which Bill says gave me an idea of what it's like to go with me to the movies.) Imogene said "I like dat movie" when it was over.

 

Clara (also known as Miss Amara, was Lily's assistant last year in ballet.)