tis the season

Well, we have survived the first two weeks of Håkon working! It certainly has been an adjustment for him to go from comfy clothes to wearing dressy clothes (even suits and ties!) and for me getting used to not having him around during the day. Thank goodness for my parents is all I can say! He is really enjoying it though and is excited about the opportunities and all the new things for him to learn. The weather has finally turned cold here and we have even seen some snow! We just got back from Vancouver Island where we visited my sister Trish and her family. There is was snowing all day - perfect for decorating the Christmas tree and for Elias to get to know his cousins. Elias is very excited about Christmas - every time he sees lights on the houses or a tree, his whole face lights up and he says "christmas!" in a very sweet voice. It will be fun this year! I have been baking some and trying to get in the Christmas spirit. It all seems to be creeping up a bit too quickly this year...I'm a bit late with the Christmas cards, etc. this year and will be sending them off tomorrow so they will come eventually! Aksel is finally starting to settle into a bit more of a reasonable rythm at night to my relief! Hopefully it lasts. I have been so very tired. Elias finally has started to go on the potty every once in a while! He was very proud and tries to go even when he doesn't have to so that he can get a treat! We actually had a friend from Trondheim stop by the other day! Granted that he now lives in the States, but it was wonderful to see someone from the "homeland" and speak some Norwegian.

ah brothers!

brrr, it's cold out there!

Elias finally got a trike to ride - with a dumper on the back!

Decorating the Christmas tree.