Family Mellmann

And we have a winner! Katherine ripped open her package and made the best "suprised" face I think I've ever seen on her. She wasn't interested in the Milka chocolate, but she's eager to play Donkey Kong! Patrick was his usual calm "oh that's cool" self.

...and (finally) something Katherine likes!

"Don't smile or you'll ruin the picture!"

This day begins our last week of school before Christmas break. (You can call it "winter break" if you want, but for us...it's CHRISTMAS!)

The cards read "We whisk you a Merry Christmas." and each whisk is filled with chocolate.

...and we have winner-Dove chocolate!

...and a lesson on gratitude and appreciation

Katherine still didn't like what she got. How did we get a child who doesn't like candy?

Each year our International friends get together (we gather for almost all the major holidays each year) to celebrate Christmas with "Adventsingen". Here, you can see Patrick playing his guitar as instrumental accompaniment. So cool.

Finally, a little enthusiasm!

No sign of Christmas excitement yet; it's still SO far away (if you're a kid).

Aren't they cheerful in the morning?...NOT

Patrick's birthday! I can't believe he turns 11 today.