Christmas Eve

Her favorite

Nadia in dance class

Independent Times

Nadia has been testing her boundaries much more in the past couple weeks. I understand that this is normal but that doesn't make it easier to deal with. I am not used to her throwing a complete tantrum over anything, sometimes when things are even going her way. It's just draining on everyone, but it has to be draining for her too. Her vocabulary has just exploded so I have been encouraging her to use her words. It is amazing what a two year old can try to tell you! She is definitely turning into a little lady and is feeling her independence. It has been nearly a month since she has had her nuk (pacifier). Teething one day she chewed one up, then the next. After that one I decided that was it, no more. When she asked for her nuk I showed her one she chewed and told her she couldn't have it anymore, it was yucky. She continued to ask every once in a while but soon she forgot about it. I am so happy that we were able to get rid of it under such peaceful terms :) Now I cannot go without asking her to do anything without her asking -Why??- So we are entering some very fun times!

Nadia had her last dance class until the holidays are over. It was family day so we were allowed to sit in class and observe. Nadia does pretty good in class although I wish she would follow the teachers directions more. As her teacher said today though, she has come a LONG way from how upset she was just a few classes ago. It is nice for other people to put it in perspective for you sometimes!

Nadia's first dance recital

Nadia had her first recital this morning. I know we are all more nervous than she! She has been fighting going to bed lately, wanting to play until 10 at night. So, it was a bit tough to have to wake her up so early today. We were all dressed and off to dance at 8 this morning! When we arrived we checked Nadia in and left her in the hands of the dance studio. I was especially nervous about this since I really haven't left her like that before. I suppose she did well since the teacher did not call my phone! It was so cute to watch all the little ones do their routines in reindeer and candycane outfits. I can't wait to see Nadia as a reindeer next year! You will see in the video that Nadia runs off pretty quickly. There is one Mom that always has to stay in class or near her child and of course Nadia always wants to go sit with her. So, when you see her run off that's where she is going. To be with the other Mom... sigh. It is such a distraction for her, but after all, she is only two :)

Happy Thanksgiving

We had a small get together for Thanksgiving this year. We were hoping that some of Jacobs family might make it out but they were unable. Since it was planned that I would cook and the food was all bought we went ahead with our plans of having Thanksgiving at our house. We missed seeing my brother, his family and his wife's extended family; we always have so much fun with everyone! Nadia always loves to see all the kids, so I did feel like she got a little gypped in that department. She loved having Oma and Opa over to her house and showing them all of her toys, tricks and dancing. She just brightens our day more and more the older she gets. She is just a little lady now. Saying full sentences, using logic, it all amazes me!

I prepared our turkey in a brine the night before so the turkey was so moist and tender. Thankfully over the years I have learned how to properly make a juicy turkey. I do not like handling raw poultry though, gives me the heebie jeebies! So it was a bit of mind over matter while preparing it all. I made my moms stuffing with hot sausage, that never gets wasted, EVER! Sweet potatoes, Garlic and feta mashed potatoes, steamed sesame green beans and a double layer pumpkin cheesecake. I had my parents come over early to munch on the deviled eggs and spinach artichoke dip. All in all, there was a TON of food and we had a great time. Oh! I also found a couple new favorite sweet red wines for myself, yum!

Nadia had a holiday dress that came with a matching baby dress. This is what she choose to wear for Thanksgiving. Sadly, we didn't get any photos as a family. I will post what I was able to get.