The Winter's First Snow

A few weeks ago, we enjoyed the first snowfall of this winter season. Admittedly, it was nothing compared to last year.
The girls have their first snowball fight! And they smiled the whole time.
Aven helps dust the snow from the lanterns while, ...
... Rory goes for a swing in the snow!
What a perfect activity for a snow day!
The snowy weather put us in the mood for Christmas. Here, Rory participates in holiday production at her school.
And Rory made a few requests of Santa Claus while they both had a free moment.

Rocknocerous

Rory felt it was time to introduce her little sister to her favorite rock band, Rocknocerous!


There Rory is, in the middle of the mosh pit!
After a little encouragement, Aven got into show, dancing on her chair and clapping to the music.


For now, Rory enjoys taking her Mom to rock concerts. For how much longer will that be the case?

Sisters, Part 7

Rory and Aven have finished decorating the tree.
Rory and Aven play with each other in the park.
Rory and Aven read their new comic books from Uncle Allen.
Rory and Aven help Daddy rake the leaves into the street.

The Many Faces of Aven

This winter, we've begun to see many new sides of Aven. Cool Aven.

Aven, Lady of Leisure. "I am ready for my next grape, Daddy."

Aven, the Littlest Reindeer. "Baa baa" (Aven thinks most animals make the sound "baa baa".)

Aven, Speed Racer. You can't pull this one away from a steering wheel.

Farmer Aven. Aven continues her love affair with animals!

Daredevil Aven. Like her big sister at a similar age, Aven enjoys flying solo in the face of physical challenges, such as this slide.

Nutcracker 2010

Now that Rory is 4, her Mommy felt that a live performance of the Nutcracker should become a seasonal tradition.
Rory enjoyed an community performance with her friends Dahlia and Gretta.
Did this girl have a good time or what?

Rory's Ballet Recital 2010

Rory led her ballet class in a roaring recital.


Her Mommy and Daddy were very proud of Rory's dedication to her craft ... and her smiles.

And the ballerina takes her bow.

And Aven wonder, when can I get a tutu for myself.

Thanksgiving 2010

In advance of Thanksgiving, Rory enjoys a tea party with her Aunts and Grandmother.
As a pre-Thanks- giving activity, Aven plays with her bears.
Aven embraces her sanctuary from the duster that chased her.
The family poses for their shot, complete with Jenny's cranberry cocktail.
Rory and Aven take some time out of the Thanksgiving festivities to visit the local bookstore.
Rory and Aven celebrated Thanksgiving with their Grandma, who ready many books to them.
After a few days, Aven warmed up to Grandma's recliner.
Ahhhh, here they are together.
And again.
Aunt Jenny plays with her nieces.
Rory helps her Aunts prepare the Thanksgiving feast!
Alex grills the Thanksgiving turkey as the sun sets on the marina.
Hmmm, did Mommy get a lot of rest on this trip?
Aven enjoys her Thanksgiving feast.

Autumn Wanes

Rory and Aven help their Daddy rake the leaves.
Aven reclines, contemplating the universe.
Rory and Aven enjoy a moment of privacy. What are they discussing?