Happy Holidays!

Reflecting back, 2012 has been a good year.  Both girls have grown so much while entertaining and challenging their parents along the way.  We have family close by (either next door or a hour a way) and are able to spend a lot of time with them.  Going out with friends, whether it be volleyball, to a restaurant or just hanging out is something we get to do weekly.  Thanks to all who have enriched our lives, and we look forward to 2013!  Happy holidays!  Below are some pictures from our holiday card and a couple pics that didn't make the cut- thanks again Bliss Photography http://www.blissphotographymn.com/

Catching Up Again.. Duluth and the Cities

We were able to take off a bit early on Friday and actually get up to Duluth before the kids bedtime!  Friday night the kids had a great time hanging out and got to bed a bit late.  Elicia and Rachel were able to relax and visit, while Brett watched Shawn ref a highschool hockey game.



Saturday morning we all headed to Home Depot for their kid craft time.  Each of the kids made their own holiday frame- with mom and dad's help.  Saturday afternoon the kids played and got excited for Bentleyville.  Unfortunately, Shay started not feeling so well (she told us her legs and head hurt), but wanted to go.  At Bentleyville she really started feeling sick, so she and Brett headed back early.  But, we were all able to see Santa, Ms. Claus, and get cookies and hot chocolate!  We were so bummed for Shay, because I think she was the person most excited to see it.  Its a good reason to make sure we come back next year!




Shay not looking too well


Good looking, healthy Burns family


Only family shot we got since Shay was a bit sick

Next year-- we are aiming for a whole group shot!


Last weekend we headed up to cities to celebrate Angie and Pete's birthdays.  The girls stayed with grandma and grandpa while mom and dad joined Amie, Pete, Angie and Evan for a fun night together.  We were able to have lots of snacks (thanks Amie) along with some good drinks.  We ended the night at the Lookout Bar where Brett and Angie were able to dance.
Sunday was a crazy weather day- but it didn't stop Shay and Rachel from heading to the ballet with Kristina and Faith.  The girls did a great job during the show, ate well at Baker's Square afterwards and endured our almost 3 hour trip home (because of the snow storm)!


Shay and Mom all ready for the ballet

Baby Gus is 1!

Brett and the girls were able to celebrate Gus's 1st birthday (Rachel was home sick) with a cowgirl/boy party!  Shay enjoyed the cowboy/girl theme so much she decided she will be a cowgirl next Halloween.










This is how Shay wears headbands, can't seem to convince her to actually put it on top of her head


One of Shay's favorite dress up costumes at Olive's house


Brett catching the bouquet

Catching Up... Thanksgiving

We have many things to be thankful for this year... 2012 has been a great year so far.  And as part of celebrating this year we were able to to to 3 Thanksgivings!  On Thanksgiving day we headed to Amma's house for a day of good conversation, great food and fun cousin time.  Then on Saturday we headed to Papa Bill's and Grandma Ginger's house for a fun day capped with a cousin sleepover!  On Sunday we all headed up to Woodbury to see the Sturm family.  It was a relaxing day which included fantastic food, great chats and being able to partake a in a relaxing holiday tradition- watching a football game.  In between our Thanksgivings we were able to put up the Christmas tree, get our holiday decorations out, go out for bowling and drinks with the neighbors and clean the house!  A good long weekend!



Shay enjoying the whole turkey leg


Amma and her grandkids


Carroll Cousins - Lyssa 2, Shay 4, Gus 1, Olive 5, Millie 4


Movie Time!

No More Training Wheels

After seeing Owen ride his bike, Shay was excited to try her out her bike with no training wheels.  She and Brett spent some time on Saturday practicing riding her big girl bike.  The first thing Brett discovered is she needs a bigger bike.  After a few tries, Shay was off biking -- with no training wheels!  Next summer should be pretty fun!