Dear H, O and B,

We had such a fun, relaxed amazing Thanksgiving day! We spent the day at Nana and Papa’s just hanging out! Hayden, I taught you how to arm knit, we wrapped gifts for Darryl and Andrea, decorated Nana and Papa’s Christmas tree, and other fun low-key activities. Papa taught you how to cut snowflakes, H, and he let you “drive” his fancy car, O. It was so much fun and I love the time we get to spend together!

Love you,
Mama

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Dear Hayden,

As you know, the piano you play was a gift to you from your great great grandparents. Grams and Poppie bought that piano for their daughter (your dad’s Grammy) when she was young so that she could learn to play. Papa just sent me a picture of her playing it. It’s neat to think that you are using the very same instrument that your great grandmother used so many years ago.

Love you,
Mama

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Dear Owen,

Today, you are three! You are a very funny and sweet little guy! You love rocket ships and those crazy inflatable balloon guys at car dealerships. You would rather be at preschool with Miss Sue than just about anywhere, and if it isn’t school time, heading to the park to play is your next favorite activity! You are such a blessing to us, and you have us laughing so many times each day.

For your birthday, we went to Build-A-Bear in the mall and then had our dinner with family. It was a great day!!

Love you,
Mama

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Dear Hayden,

Today you had your first piano recital. You did an amazing job. You had to introduce yourself, so you stood up and said, “Hello. My name is Hayden McCauley. I am six years old. I will be playing Away in a Manger.” Then, you played your song and stood up and took a bow. It was so cute. You are Miss Debbie’s youngest student, and you were great!

Love you,
Mama

Last practice before we left:
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You and Miss Debbie after the recital:
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Dear H, O and B,

This year, you were all pirates for Halloween! We went to the annual block party and then H and O, you went trick-or-treating with your dad and B, you stayed home with me and handed out candy until you got tired. Nana and Papa were here, so when you got cranky, they gave you a bath and put you to bed — next year you will be old enough to go trick-or-treating with your siblings. It was a fun evening!

Love you,
Mama

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