Scout's photo essay

This is the tree we got in the mountains, she says

That's you and Ruby, she says

Scout and her Rapunzel tower, I say

That's a snowflake, she says

That's the pillow, she says

That's dad drinking his cup, she says

That's Rapunzel, she says

That is a tent, she says

That's a Barbie doll, she says

That's Penny with my blankie stepped on, she says

That's the ornament, she says

That's a shoe, she says

That's mom's foot, she says

That's Beamer, I say

This is Scout

I know that I often speak of Scout and her style. I'm pretty sure everyone thinks that their child is special, fantastic, wonderful, fun, etc. for a ton of reasons. They should, at least. But seriously, I find Scout's fascination with fashion, lovely things, anything sparkly so interesting. It's so inherent. I have done nothing beyond buying a few "dress up clothes" at the junk store back when she was about two to inspire her. From a very young age, she gravitated towards shoes, jewelry, anything with "bling." And, let's just say, her style is unique for a four-year-old. For an any-year-old, actually. It's like George Clinton meets Stevie Nicks meets one of Degas ballerinas. And I love it.

It's also no surprise that this is something that the rest of the family has picked up on and also enjoys. My mom, for example, buys her clothes from the junk store all the time. She recently found these two items, and immediately thought of Scout. I can't help but smile when I see this girl in this outfit. I don't know if there is a more fitting example of her style!

It's a good time of year to be Scout and Ruby

It's quite the deal around here these days. Turns out, it's all about the kids.

How's this for your life?

Each day you wake up and request a "treat." Maybe not right then and there, but pretty much your wish is granted.

Each day a package arrives and it's filled with goodies for you.

Each day a visit with a friend, beloved family member, or some activity fills your life with joy.

Yep, that's pretty much what December has been like for Scout and Ruby.

Ruby at Addy and Ella's house--visit Dec. 10

Cory with beer in hand

Jasmine and Mulan

Having fun with the cousins

Dance party/dress up party

Anja came over to help us decorate--on December 18th

Little helper

Despite the smiles, this all was a bit more exhausting than I anticipated. Um, I was about ready to pull the plug after most of the sprinkles were on the table, Ruby dumped one whole container in her frosting, and any effort I made to actually frost the cookies was met with little or no help. We had a get-together with another friend in early December and it went so much better. The difference? Two adults.

Here's where my "helpers" were for most of the time I was actually baking

Another "helper" hideaway

Molasses cookies

The kitchen prepped for hard work

Caramel nut clusters--a recipe I tried this year and I'm definitely using again. Awesome and so easy.

Cory and my other "helper"

Opening up presents from Grandma Karen and Papa Matty on Dec. 21st

Scout gets Silvermist--one of the Fairies! (Ruby got Tinkerbell--see, blond doll for blond girl, dark haired doll for dark haired girl)

Barbie the "Zoo Doctor"

Barbie the "Cooking Class teacher"

At the preschool picnic, with Kylie, Hailey, Scout and Braedon (L to R)

I'm very proud of our display of Christmas cards

Scout opens her present from Aunt Lacey (on Dec. 18th)

Oh, a play makeup set! What more could a fancy girl want?

Aunt Lacey helps apply make up (and gets make up applied upon her face, as well)

Ruby's gift (a tent) makes the perfect makeup hideaway

Penny and Travis also enjoy the festivities

"What'd you get Ruby?" --Hello Kitty lip gloss

A visitor to the tent

Merry Christmas!

Ruby turns 2--11/19/11

It's been a long time coming--here are photos from the party that we had for little Rube's birthday. We were very blessed that so many people could come and celebrate with us--Lexie, Jon, Ella and Addy from Cheyenne, Grandma Margie from Sundance, Aunt Lacey from here in F.C. and Uncle Jake all the way from Minneapolis. How lucky is our little Ruby? Notably absent was poor Papa Alan who had some very important recovering to do from a recent surgery.

We spent time at the Mulberry pool--first swimming (braving the cold water) and then off to our pizza party in the party room.

Ruby was spoiled rotten by those that love her. And how much more fun can you have when you are two and there is a pool, pizza, soda AND your fun family around?

Looking pretty serious about her Strawberry Shortcake cake

Notice that she is wearing the most adorable Tinkerbell nightgown (one of her gifts, given by Great-Grandma Marlene)

Ella taking advantage of the party room (also known as the dance room at Mulberry Pool)

All the girls enjoying the full-length mirrors

Ella and Scout, wearing the party favors

Aunt Lacey and Uncle Jake

Party goers get pretty wild

Even mom had to try out the party favors

Aunt Lexie too--who can resist the Abby Cadabby-like headband

Addy with Aunt Lacey and Grandma Margie

A pretty intense gift opening look

Ella's cute braids as she looks on

Three very tired looking party-goers

The big present opening spot--so many goodies!

Love that smile on the big sister

Second year in a row at the Mulberry Pool... we might just find this becomes a birthday party tradition!