Christmas Trip to Tyler

Here are a few pics from our trip to see Steve (my brother), Leann, Rachel, Tyler (Ty), and Brock earlier this month in Tyler. We had a blast!!!

just hear those sleigh bells ringalin'.... and elves on shelves....

Hello to all!! I'm sorry it's been so long since I've posted!! We have been SUPER busy (like everyone who celebrates Christmas at all), and we've had computer troubles at home, so I've been behind, to say the least!!
We've had a really wonderful season so far! Lots of parties and get-togethers, caroling, a wedding, a trip to Tyler, TX, and so much more! We are anxious for baby girl to see what Santa will bring- it's gonna be a FUN Christmas! (I hear Santa has LOTS of construction projects to complete in the next few days- he's somewhat of a procrastinator, that Santa!) We plan to be at our house on Christmas Eve/ Christmas Day, and then to Nashville for the weekend. Shelley- we're coming to see that baby girl!!
Ella calls Santa "Ho-Ho", and we haven't made it to his lap yet this year! She yells "no-way" every time. =) She is talking and singing ALL the time right now! Her favorites are Jingle Bells and Twinkle, Twinkle. I will post videos as soon as I can- she is such a ball of fun!
She can now count into the teens and is recognizing several letters and most colors- it's amazing how much their little minds soak up right now!! She loves jewelry right now and informed us on many occasions this week that she is a "printhcess" (princess). This girl has to get her own pair of high-heeled shoes- she loves mine. =)

On a Christmas note, I've been meaning to post for a while about the ever-so-popular ELF ON THE SHELF. It's an age-old tradition that seems to have made such a comeback this season- they're everywhere. Something about an Elf that you take home and name, and find random places throughout your home for him to "perch" where your child can see him watching (i.e. shelf, refridgerator, closet, bed post) . This particular elf reports to Santa whether the child has been naughty or nice on his nightly trip to the north pole, and finds a new place to rest in the morning when he's returned.
With that said, let me state for the record that I AM quite a fan of Christmas traditions and celebrations, and making my child behave whether Santa is on his way or not. However, I am NOT a fan of ANY creepy-eyed creature in my home PEERING over my child. (see previous post around Halloween) I have no idea on earth why THE ELF ON THE SHELF company could not have made this particular doll, while nostalgic and vintage, less creepy with a sweeter, jolly face and especially EYES!!! I seriously would not have been able to sleep as a child if I knew this thing was WATCHING me!!!!!!!! I think it's appropriate to share a photo at this time:

Creeped out yet?

SO, if we choose to make the ELF ON THE SHELF a tradition in the Ekenseair home any time soon, we will be finding a DIFFERENT elf!!! *****NOTE: if you are a friend reading this entry who has one of these in your home (sorry, Ashley, etc.), please take NO offense! This is another personal matter that I probably need therapy for in the first place. I am excited that you have chosen to carry on this tradition! AND- In case of emergency, I personally volunteer to hold/comfort/console any child that has been traumatized by said Elf. After all, it's Christmas.

Love to all! I'll post new pics soon!!! Enjoy your last-minute shopping and baking