There was a sweet birthday girl (I know it looks like we just gave her a car, but in reality she got a handmade doll).
There was an acknowledgement that the deadline for the advent calendar project will be extended another year. Deadline isn't a nice word, anyway.
There were more recitals, more performances, more singing of lovely Christmas music. I will try to share some of these moments captured on video in the next little while. The one where Izzy lights up her violin due to friction of the bow is quite memorable.
And copious amounts of tree gazing. Yet another indicator of the high times enjoyed chez Tollipop.
Dear reader it was a lovely weekend, involving celebrations, sushi, a dear brother-in-law, an apple pie project, and an early morning bike ride wherein I raced an unsuspecting cyclist around a circular course out in the desert. I beat him on every climb, but he would sail past me on every downhill. It was maddening. We passed each other a total of six times. And even though not a word was exchanged, I know we were sending each other the most ferocious thoughts.
My girls are on school break for the next two weeks. Hooray! And my little brother will be spending the vacation with us as well. I am looking forward to some happy times together. But I'm also feeling a little worn out. I mention this only because I think I may set Tollipop somewhat aside during the holidays. Whatever energy I have will be spent enjoying the family that is near and wishing my other brother and sisters could be with us, as well.
Of course, I will be back later today to announce the winner of the kokeshi doll giveaway. There's still time to enter, dear reader! You never know when it will be your lucky day. Trust me. I am presently reeling with delight over winning one of Beata's dreamy pillowcases.
If you would like to enter the kokeshi doll giveaway, simply leave a comment on this post.
Wishing you a lovely Monday...