Christmas Baking and Gingerbread House Making...

Every year my mom, Lauren and I bake the traditional Andersen Christmas goodies. My mouth waters every time I think of those yummy chocolate clouds, peanut butter cups, meltaways, caramels, and angel thumbprints. Sigh. If only the calories could bake out of everything...

Here's Jackson, proving that he does have a little bit of Andersen in him, as he sneaks his first peanut butter cup unbeknownst to everyone.

It's a lengthy process, but well worth it for all the family Christmas parties.

The Sunday after Thanksgiving, we kick off the season by decorating gingerbread houses...or trains.

The finished products: John and mine is on the left, Lauren, Dave and Wesley's is on the right. Grandma and Grandpa were helpful in entertaining the babies.

Ta-da, the happy helpers.

Sledding...

This was Jackson 1st time sledding. I felt it my parental duty to help him enjoy the snow after such a short, tear-filled intial experience. He was a little aprehensive, but he did loosen up by the end.

There wasn't much snow, so I decided to pull him down the hill after a painfully slow initial attempt down the hill.

His preferred method of sledding was on all fours. In the end we both had a smile on our faces.

I just love how snuggly he is in his snow clothes!

Three words: C.P.A.

We are happy to announce that after many, many hours of hard work, study and dedication, John has passed all 4 of his CPA exams!

Congrats, babe! We are so proud of you.

Santa...

Merry Christmas!

Jackson was a little nervous when we sat him on Santa's lap, as you can tell he practically pulled himself into my arms. The photographer was quick and caught this just in time! No tears this year.

Snow Day...

It snowed pretty hard last week and well, I decided that it was time for Jackson to experience playing in the snow. Although this activity lasted about 5 minutes, it was well worth the 20 minutes getting both him and I ready for the below freezing temperature that day. I decided that a box, spatula, cups and 2 spoons would be enough to properly experience the snow. Turns out we didn't need anything but the snow!

He is just like an Andersen and does this crazy face when you want him to be serious and take a cute picture with you.

Snow day was so fun...until he realized how cold snow is when you get it on your face!

O Christmas Tree...

Jackson loves the Christmas Tree, unfortunately it's to the death of anything staying on it.

Enjoy our festive home and Jackson's decorating skills in action.

In & Out

In & Out...

This is Jackson's new favorite thing to do! Any box, drawer, lid or cubby and he will try to get in and out! He has developed a lot of new bruises trying out his new trick! It doesn't matter what is in the box or what was in it, he will find a way to squeeze in. Move over here he comes!

Diaper Box

Toy Box

Kitchen Drawer