December, Part 2

We got a chuckle out of the kids' matching uniforms one morning.  You would think with such limited options, this would happen more often, but it doesn't.

Our naked son climbing across the window ledge.  

Just another day in the Puplis home.

The last three years, Claire has been an angel in our church Christmas pageant, so this year, she put in a special request to try something new.  She did a wonderful job in her new role as the prophet Isaiah.

And Henry was a natural in his role as a Shepherd, which wasn't always easy with a sheep like George in his flock.  But they sure were entertaining.

We bundled up and took the kids ice skating at Rosa Parks Circle.  Claire and George were thrilled, but Henry insisted he would not even put on the skates, let along venture out on the ice.

Starting out, George chastised me for trying to help him.  He was determined to do it on his own.  Henry was latched to the hand rail as he inched along.  And Claire was naively optimistic, expecting to take off quickly.  That pretty much sums up their three personalities.

But one lap into it, George was dismayed by his few falls.  Claire was downright frustrated by gravity.  And Henry was the only one with a true smile on his face.

Henry's anxiety subsided as he quickly gained confidence.

And with perseverance (and a few pep talks), Claire did really well too. 

George, on the other hand, sidelined himself, not wanting to risk another fall.

Making Christmas cookies

Christmas morning

After opening stockings, and "decorating" our Christmas tree cinnamon rolls, we burrowed out of our driveway and headed to church. 

Building a volcano.

Claire was so proud that she completed her dominoes math puzzle.  I was too!

And Henry was proud of the sword he made.  I was too!

That wraps up another year.  Looking forward to 2018 and hopeful that a fresh start will do our family good.  The last half of 2017 was tough, to say the least.  But there were plenty of sweet moments too.  So, of course, we keep moving forward.  Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow.