Walking in a Winter Wonderland

Today Arabella and I ventured out for a walk in the Winter Wonderland.  It was pretty cold, so we bundled up nice and warm and before we made it home, it had started to snow again!  We explored the neighborhood and checked out all the huge piles of snow.  She had fun climbing them and then sliding down them.  It was nice to get out for some fresh air and I was hoping a walk around the block might push the little guy into arriving soon!!  We couldn't believe how much snow there is out there...and now there is even more coming down.  Jay has been out cleaning off the car, just in case it is time to head to the hospital, but every time he does, it just gets recovered in the white stuff! 

Christmas Continues

Yesterday, Arabella received a package from Uncle Mike and Uncle Jeff.  She was very excited to see what was inside...and so were Jay and I, especially after it had been opened and resealed by Canada Border Services for inspection!  They even opened one of the presents inside!

She loved the book, games for her LeapPad and the owl ornament that they sent to her.  She also loved the butterfly earrings!!  She had been reading the books nonstop and has been playing her games a bunch today!  Thanks Uncle Mike and Uncle Jeff - you guys picked out awesome gifts, you sure do know your Little Bean!

Snowstorm & Saltimbanco!!

On Thursday, we had a massive snowstorm.  I honestly think this is one of the biggest one day storms we have had since we moved her 3 years ago.  The snow kept coming down hard and heavy all day and the windy was blowing it like crazy!  Jay and Arabella tried to venture out in it...but they didn't get too far or last too long.  It was a beautiful sight to see the big white snowflakes falling!

This is a picture of the snow hanging off our room from an upstairs window!

That night, Arabella and I had tickets to join Bram and Micki to see Saltimbanco, a Cirque du Soleil show that is ending its run after 20 years at the Bell Center downtown.  We thought it might be cancelled, but who were we kidding, this is Canada and they know how to deal with snow right?!?!?!?!  We left around 4 pm for a 7:30 show...and the going was slow, our roads were barely plowed...

And there were a few accidents along the way...

But all in all, the drive wasn't too bad.  And Montreal was on top of clearing the snow.  There were huge piles all around.

We had plenty of time to get something to eat and Arabella and Micki had a great time being silly!

After dinner, it was on to the show!  Saltimbanco!!  It was great and Bram and I really enjoyed it.  The kids on the other hand went through phases...at some points they were totally into it, at others not so much and were asking to go home.  I have loved all the Cirque shows that I have seen...I'm up to 3 now...and would jump at the chance to see any of their shows.  I am glad we were able to catch this one before it ends its 20 year run tomorrow night. 

Despite the weather, we had a great time!  Arabella said she had fun seeing the acrobats so I think she enjoyed it despite asking to go home, I think she was tired from the long day.  Anyhow, it was nice to get out for possibly one last outing before the little guy arrives!

Photo-A-Day Challenge - Day 28 & 29 - Warm & Cozy

Day 28 - Warm

Day 29 - Cozy

Photo-A-Day Challenge - Day 27 - Silent Night

We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Christmas morning was a flurry of activity.  Arabella could hardly believe that Santa had visited our house.  The look of wonder on her face was priceless when she saw the presents.  And then when she went to see if he filled her stocking, she was in awe. 

Santa even gave Jay one of his favorites in his stocking...a 1/2 pound Reeses Peanut Butter Cup!  Jay also tried to teach Arabella how to figure out what is inside the wrapping paper...but I'm not sure it worked.

Arabella knew exactly which presents were hers under the tree since Santa used special princess Christmas wrapping paper.  She had so much fun and loved opening every gift.  We had a great morning, it was what Christmas is all about. 

Once all the gifts were open, Arabella and Jay got right to putting together her Playmobil toys.  She was so happy that Santa had brought her the Summer House that she had wanted and Auntie Lori even got her a few pieces too.

We stayed in our pj's for most of the day.  Later in the afternoon, we went to June, Mike & Christopher's house for Christmas dinner.  It was very nice and we had a great turkey dinner.  Arabella and Christoper exchanged gifts and had a fun time playing together.  We are so lucky to have such great friends here in Montreal to share holiday's with. 

We had a wonderful Christmas!  We are feeling very lucky and blessed and hope that your Christmas was a full of joy and wonder as our was!  Merry Christmas!