Penn's Landing River Rink

  Have you been to the river rink lately at Penn's landing? Well if not, then you are missing out! This winter we discovered Philly's top winter hot spot.
You can skate with Santa and get your picture taken just like you used to. They have upgraded the surroundings with really cool seating around fire stoked chimeneas, lit pine trees, and hay bales.

Celebrating my birthday with friends 

This is Alex's first time on skates. I'm really proud of him for getting out there, but it didn't last very long. He was off the rink without even going around the rink.








Lilia did a little better, and enjoyed it much more than Alex. At that point Dave's back was killing him from supporting the kids, so she didn't last long either. Eh, better luck next year right?

If you need to warm up there is a lodge set up with leather couches, wool blankets, jenga, hot chocolate and fun adult beverages. There is a small menu of typical American food...burgers and sandwiches if you get hungry.
All in all, the atmosphere is really cool, there is plenty to do even if you aren't good on the ice.
Check it out; it will be your new favorite winter go to.

Traditions and Birthdays

 We've formed an official tradition of cutting down our Christmas tree. It's so fun. The first weekend after Thanksgiving we bundle up and head over to Wata farm.
This year everyone made it. As we tromped through the snow, light flakes fell on our noses as Christmas music played over the loud speaker. It was rather perfect.

 The older kids played happily in the snow, playing amongst the trees while we searched for just the right shape to adorn with lights and ornaments.

Here's Claire (right) and Naomi (left) bundled up. They were completely clueless at only 10 months old, but they were happy as a lark. 

AnnMarie hold Ellie, Matt holding Olivia

We also celebrated my dad's birthday, which fell on that same weekend. Here are the kids singing to him, patiently awaiting our favorite Black Magic cake!

Alex's holiday concert

 December of 2014 marked my very last holiday concert at Overbrook Preschool. Last year Alex was scared, and needed to hold Stinky Bear the whole time. This he was brave and confident!! Stinky Bear stayed in his school bag and never made into the concert area.
Don't you love his outfit! I asked him if he would wear this jacket. He said he would and that he wanted to look fancy/handsome. That day we made up a new word together, "fansome."

singing

Alex with his teacher Miss Lexie