Oh, Christmas Tree, Oh, Christmas Tree

Last Monday we decorated the tree in the dining room. This is a new addition to our holiday decor. I apologize in advance for the quality of the photos. The kids weren't exactly holding still much during this activity. 

Queenie helping to straighten the branches

 We bought an artificial tree from Lusaka--only way to go out here--and a few simple decorations to get it started. We're sure to have plenty of kid-made treasures to fill it up as the years go by.

Elias stretching up to wrap the lights around

Timmy and Christina helped the kids set up the tree and then Timmy supervised the decorating.

Nathan helps tidy the tinsel

He did a really good job of corralling 16 preschoolers and making them all feel a part of the experience.

Beauty and Theresa working together

Janet adding the silver beads

After a child or two  had a turn at stringing a garland 'round the tree, or adding a bobble or bell, Timmy would call for a round of applause.

Even little bitty Lizzie got to add something to the tree.

Putting the star atop the tree was the grand finale. Queenie was chosen for the honor and loved being hoisted all the way up in the air.

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Less than one week 'till Christmas. If you are as behind as I am, take a moment from the hustle and bustle to look on the lighter side of life on my side of the world:

Exactly One Year Ago: A Couple Giggles to Brighten Your Weekend

Exactly Two Years Ago: My Tatas are Tired

It's Their Party!

As promised yesterday, here are the pictures from Queenie and Theresa's birthday party. They both turned or are about to turn 4 years old.

Henry--2 years old

We started off the party with some fun balloon play. 

Elias--3 years old

Then the kids moved to the floor for cake and singing "Happy Birthday"

They did really well. I thought there would be jealousy about two out of fourteen kids being honored alone but there were no problems and the kids were just excited to be having a party. Even little baby Lizzie joined in. This was the first time I'd seen her sitting up by herself.

The Birthday Girls! Theresa (left) and Queenie (right)

Blowing out the candles was a new experience and took several tries.

It didn't help that Tom had picked out the kind that re-lit themselves over and over.

Moriah--20 months
Mmmm! Yummy cake!*

After cake we moved the party outside for playtime to help burn off the sugar high.

Silly string time!

Johnny (left)--3 years & Chola (right)--4 years

The kids tried their hands (and feet) at Twister but I think they need to grow a bit still.

After Twister they played Limbo (no pictures, sorry) and even the nannies joined in. 

It was a really fun afternoon and sure (definitely!) to be just the first of many.

*We do have tables and chairs for the kids but the dining room was being used that afternoon.