New Years Eve

 

In search of fresh air, we set off this morning for a walk in Lake Fairfax Park.

 

It was a beautiful day, sunny and bright, but very cold in the wind.

 

Everyone was wrapped up warmly but we didn't hang around.

 

After a suitable amount of exposure to the fresh air we headed to the Silver Diner for lunch.

 

Whilst waiting for lunch, Theo amused himself with a little colouring..

 

And watching for cars in the car park..

 

Brum..Brum...!!

Just a Flurry

 

We had high hopes of seeing some snow during Lauren, James and Theo's visit - but it was not to be - even though Theo came over suitably kitted out with snowsuit and boots!

 

We had the tiniest flurries today, just enough for Theo to see that it was snowing and to capture, momentarily, a snowflake or two!

 

Then and Now

 

When Lauren, James and Theo visited us in the Spring, we went to a small playground at the edge of the woods.  

 

We visited again this week..

 

Theo is much more confident now of course and quite independent on the slide, even though Grandpa was keeping an eye on him!

 

 

Birthday

 

Theo has had lots of practice opening gifts in the last few days and so was keen to help Lauren with her birthday presents and cards today at breakfast.

 

The balloons were also a big hit and they continue to be very resilient, having been used as ad hoc 'Space Hoppers'!

 

A taste of birthday cake was a treat that Theo enjoyed.

We visited Leesburg shopping village later in the day for some bargain hunting and then returned home for a quiet evening.

Winter Walk of Lights

 

Today was surprisingly warm for the end of December with a high of 18C.  This evening it was cooling but still pleasant when we went to Meadowlark Gardens to see the Winter Walk of Lights.

 

As last year it was a great display with millions of tiny bulbs lighting up the trees, as well as tableaux depicting life in the garden - bees, hummingbirds, fish, turtles, birds and squirrels.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Christmas Cookies

 

Lauren and Theo were the cookie makers today...

 

Once they were out of the oven, they were suitably decorated and sandwiched together with marshmallow..!

 

Happy Christmas!

 

We hope that you have had a lovely Christmas Day.  Here are a few of our moments from a day which started around 4.30 am.

 

 

 

 

(In case you wondered, this is David demonstrating his harmonica playing skills!)

 

Theo needed frequent naps to keep his energy levels up but he did very well and enjoyed his day.

 

 

Such a great privilege to share Theo's second Christmas with this little family xxx.

The Night Before Christmas

 

Christmas Eve preparations..putting out the 'Santa please stop here' sign with Grandpa..

 

A spot of cookie making with Grandma..

 

Rest and relaxation before the big day - poor Theo has been feeling rough today..

 

The tree is ready and train in position;

 

Stockings are in place...

 

Christmas outfit tried on....

 

Photo opportunity by the big tree!

We are all ready for bed now!!

Keeping Busy

 

Unfortunately poor Theo seems to have chicken pox and so we have had a quiet day today, keeping busy indoors or close to home. After breakfast this morning, Theo enjoyed playing with his Play Doh.

 

This afternoon we ventured out to play on the grass below the house..

 

We couldn't help but think that a little snow would have turned this slope into an excellent place for sledging!

 

Later Theo and Grandpa opened some lovely Christmas cards brought from home.

 

We hope that he continues to feel better tomorrow.