Mel's Box of Chocolates

Every year when the kids birthdays come around I give myself a pat on the back for keeping them alive for another year.  Parenting is such a learn as you go kind of situation.  You pray that the choices you make just don't mess them up for the rest of their lives. Or at least I do. Yesterday, Dylan celebrated his 11th birthday. 11 years!! Wow.  Where did that time go?! I'm so proud of that kid. Smart in school, great sense of humor, good empathizer, and for the most part a polite, young man.  Hey, I did mention I kept him alive for 11 years, I think I earned the right to brag just a little bit! He got to pick the restaurant for his bday dinner and hibachi it was.  Our chef was amazing and had such a fun sense of humor.  We were quite entertained.  The table was full with grandparents and even his uncle came out for the special event. Then back at home came the presents and the cake.  This year instead of many small things ...

Every year, for the past 5 or 6 years we have went to the same local tree farm to find the perfect tree to be our Christmas tree. Cookies, hot chocolate, and a warm fire. Perfect for hunting that elusive tree. This year though, as you can see from the pictures, a fire was the last thing we wanted as we hunted for our tree in 70 degree weather.  Oh well. This year was a quick pick. Tall and skinny. Perfect for our house! This may be my favorite picture this year.  Zoe and her daddy with Max too.  Love it!! Do you have your tree up? I have to ask.  Live or Artificial??