Nutcracker Tradition (December, 2016)

Kaitlyn and I went to see Charlotte Ballet version of the Nutcracker. This is one of my favorite Christmas traditions. Kate just loves seeing all of the dancing, costumes and all of the beautiful music. I love that she starts listening to her Nutcracker CD at bedtime months beforehand! We get dressed up to see the ballet, and then have a nice girls lunch/dinner. Such a fun day!

HE DID IT!!!!!!! (December, 2016)

(Time to brag on the boy!) After all of his HARD work and perseverance, Mikey finally earned his swimming trophy at Charlotte Aquatics. Just a reminder of what this means:

Not only has Mikey mastered all 10 skills required to pass level 6 but the 102 skills through out all the levels.  He has persevered and worked so hard. Mikey has the right to brag to all his friends and family that he can swim 300 feet of front crawl with rotary breathing; 300 feet of back stroke; 150 feet of butterfly, breast stroke, elementary back stroke, and side stroke; and also know all the resting strokes. He can swim fully clothed, retrieve a 5 pound brick, do flip turns, and tread water for 5 minutes! 

WAY TO GO MIKEY!!!

We LOVE our Ms. Gigi who taught both of the kids

First Certificate..... TROPHY!!

Burke Family Trees 2016 (December 2016)

Polar Express (December, 2016)

This year, our neighborhood hosted an outdoor movie and bonfire. We had a cookie exchange and sang Christmas carols before we all cozied up under blankets and watched 'Polar Express' (have I mentioned that I love our neighborhood?). 

Kindergarten Gingerbread Houses (December, 2016)

I was able to participate with Mikey in the annual Kindergarten decorating gingerbread houses. I love getting to spend this time with him and have fun with his class. He did a great job and I think ours turned out the best-- I may be a bit biased :)

Mikey's teacher- Mrs. Antley

I mean, who's cuter than this kid?

Mikey's Assistant Teacher- Mrs. Therrell

Tree Time!!! (December, 2016)

Time for our annual trek to the NC mountains to find our perfect Christmas Tree. This year, we just took a day trip and went with our neighbors: The McIntyres and The Bentzoni's. We had such a great time and I think we found our new spot to get our tree every year from now on!! They offered hayrides, bonfires, Santa, and of course- amazing trees to choose from. It was a great day full of holiday cheer and Christmas Carols!!

They cut a piece off of the trunk of the tree we chose and branded it for us at the bonfire so we can keep it as a keepsake forever!

Springfield Colt of the Month (December, 2016)

Have I mentioned how amazing our girl is (don't worry, I will post soon on our remarkable boy-child too!)? Kaitlyn came home this month with the 'Colt of the Month' award. We are so PROUD of our kids!!