Skating

Dec. 23 we took our friend, Aidan, skating. This was Alyssa's second time (she went on Xmas Day 2008) and Hayden's and Aidan's first. Aidan was SO excited ~ although I'm not sure if his excitement was more about skating or getting to wear a sweater.

Conversations beyond the boards.

As with all outings, snack break is mandatory ~ thanks to Aiden for providing the snacks which were hastily devoured.

Hayden having a blast. Note that Steve is wearing shorts and skating...probably the last time that will happen.

After about an hour, these two were able to go around the rink on their own. By the end everyone was tired with sore legs and feet...but, we weren't cold!

I'm one of THOSE parents

I realize this picture is now proof that I'm one of "those" parents. Yes, my six year old has an ipod touch...I don' even have an ipod touch! But, look at the entertainment value ~ Shawn the Sheep in the car....

Christmas is coming...

Shopping at Cold Storage the other day, I found this Rice Krispies kit for making Christmas houses. It came complete with cereal, mini marshmallows, icing and candies. In Canada this is not such a big deal, but in Malaysia (land devoid of mini marshmallow and a severe shortage of "normal" marshmallows) it was a novelty. So, I purchased it and we made it as soon as we got home. Here are a couple pics of the process and the product. The goal: to fit as many candies on the house as possible. Note the intense look of concentration on both their faces as they decorate.

Santa Visits M'KIS

Again this year Santa came to visit M'KIS. It's so awesome! He and his *helper elves* ensure that EVERY kid in the classes he visits gets a book. Unfortunately, we missed his visit to Alyssa's class, but here he is with Hayden. I know how excited my gr. 2 students were, I can't imagine the 3 year olds!

LL Soccer - one more look

Little League Soccer wrapped up this past weekend. While it was fun being coach and watching the kids improve, I'm a little glad it's over...that means no more 8:30 a.m. Sat. morning trips to school!!! This year, I decided to volunteer to coach (which meant being there EVERY Saturday). Steve was my assistant coach and so was Bill ~ I think Bill really should have coached as he was much better at it than I, but he seemed to appreciate not having that responsibility. Here are a few photos Jer took a couple weeks ago when he and Carol visited.

Hayden, the ball rescuer

and the cone rescuer (even if we were using them)

she shoots...she scores!

hangin out

Beauties

One of the great benefits of living in the tropics is the ability to have fantastic pool parties on any day of the year! These photos are from Alyssa's friend McKenna's 6th birthday party in November.

Alyssa and Sofia hanging out

The jumping line...fun no matter how many times you do it! (and hanging out with Ella ~ the big kid ~ is pretty cool too)

Swimming Lessons

Every Wednesday after school, our friend Jon comes over to teach the kids swimming lessons at our pool. He is really great with the kids and they have learned tons through his lessons. Thanks Jon!

Below: Alyssa and Hayden floation, Beside: teaching Hayden freestyle arms, Bottom: Alyssa practicing her breathing technique