Reindeer games

Here in the South, we sled on our boogie boards. And we build "snowtoddlers" instead of full-size snowmen.

Christmas loot

Elliott must have been a nice boy this year because Santa sure was good to him! The eagerly awaited bicycle with no pedals arrived along with a few other things.

First school picture

Ho Ho Ho

Elliott chatted with Santa this afternoon at The Summit in Birmingham.

Elliott was pretty quiet during his visit, but you can see that he says "bicycle with no pedals" as soon as he sits down. He later clarifies that he wants a red one. And then he clammed up. Because what else needs to be said anyway? (Maybe if the lady taking the photo would give him 5 uninterrupted seconds to talk to Santa, but anyhoo.)

Bathtub Rehearsal

Elliott's class is singing "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" in the school musical on Friday. I think that he's been coached to sing LOUD. Or maybe they said to sing EVIL.

This wasn't the clearest version, but it's the one that made me laugh the hardest.

Fits like a glove (or "The Incredible Hulk Santa")

Elliott saw this old Santa suit in his closet and insisted that we let him wear it. It's a 9-month-old size. I tried to reason with him and then thought, "Oh, why not?" At first he thought it was hilarious.

And then he got mad because "my tummy is sticking out!!!" I know the feeling, son. I know the feeling.

A bit of a miscommunication

Tonight after dinner, we played "football team" in the living room. There was running, throwing, and even kicking. Every few minutes, Elliott would go stand in the corner and say, "Football team in time-out!" After a few times, Eric had a lightbulb moment: When we say that the team took a time-out, Elliott obviously thought they were IN time-out. All this time he's obviously been thinking that the team is in trouble!

Bend It Like Beckham

Elliott started soccer today, and he is hooked! Clearly he's a natural.

101,000 friends

Elliott went to the Bama game with us yesterday. He had such a good time! Some friends who sit near us gave him a sucker, and he was in hog heaven. (Side note: Two strangers were sitting right behind us. Turns out it was The Legend and DJ K-Dub. If you don't know them, you're not listening to enough Finebaum!)

And then my heart melted into a little puddle...

On Sunday night we were riding home from dinner when Elliott announced from the back seat, "I so, so happy!" I replied, "I'm glad that you're happy! Mommy's happy, too."

How could she not be?