It's been a while

I'm finally able to take some time while the kids play and update the Strickler family blog. 

Here are some pictures and what we've been up to:

 The Christmas pyramid.  We were going to continue the annual scavenger hunt but with the stress that everyone had been through this fall, we decided to skip it and have a quiet Christmas by the fireplace.  We did start the evening right by going out to Red Lobster and eating our fill.

 The kids by the tree.

 Peter decided he does like dogs.

 Sue took the kids to Costco to load up supplies to take to the local food bank.  It was our gift to Grandma.  Sam and Perrin had been collecting money from their allowance all year and had $64 to contribute. 

 The car's loaded.

 I blogged earlier about Perrin's birthday extravaganza and here are the pictures to prove it.  Perrin having her pedicure.

 And her mini-mani....

 and her facial....

 I think she likes it....

finishing the morning up with a back rub. 

 After the spa we were off to tea in downtown Denver.  Sam and Charlie weren't sure about all this.

 Sam's drinking his tea with a couple of lumps.  Notice the finger form from Charlie.

 Perrin loved the pretty tea cups, plates, flowers on the table...just what every 6 year old needs.

And of course the food was pretty good too.