The Growing Caldwell Family

We kept the fun going and headed to Lovie and Pops' for a fun time learning a new game - Michigan Rummy (aka Tripoli). Everybody played, there were laughs, noone quit the game, and the kids worked on their card skills. What a success!  

Although it was King's Day and technically Christmas was over, we had one more Christmas bucket list item to check off - iceskating!  We spent a fun afternoon skating and Livy and Ney joined us! In this shot Charlie looks like he might be working on some ice dancing moves! In reality, we are laughing hysterically because he almost stumbled and got into a spin that he didn't think he could get out of without falling! Sometimes when I laugh at funny mistakes he gets upset and feels picked on, but this time he saw the humor in it too! They took turns skating holding Livy's hand to give her some extra confidence! It was sweet of them, especially since I can't skate and hold someone's hand! I have to use my arms for balance - probably not the most graceful look! It was sort of crowded at the rink, but lots of fun to get out and be together.   

They were tickled realizing they had on Vineyard & Vine shirts that were nearly matching! So much love for one another! It turns out that these two have a lot to smile about! Report cards came out and they both did excellent with their hard work paying off! On top of the good grades, their teachers had kind things to say about them. I love that they are in a school where their light can shine and have teachers who see it!   

Charlie was due for a haircut and decided it was time for a new style - the Joe Burrow haircut! He brought pictures to show Tony, the barber, what he wanted.  He was super-excited with the result! Styling it perfectly has taken some work and he has shed a few tears of frustration trying to get it to go back like Joe Burrow's, but he is getting the hang of it!   

We have had chilly weather and Sissy got bundled up in new hat, scarf, gloves, and jacket to do some scootering! Aaron and i were back to work after New Year's but the kids enjoyed an extra day at the lake! I miss those long winter breaks I enjoyed as a student!  

New Year's day was laid.back and relaxed for us.  We said goodbye to Grandaddy and MeMe as they needed to head home. It was good to see them and have some time to talk and tell stories! We spent some time watching football! Tigers win! What a game! Charlie has been playing Madden and has gotten into football more, recognizing plays, and becoming a Joe Burrow and Cincinnati Bengals fan! He was excited for the Tigers to win and you know Pops was happy!  

New Year’s Eve was low key and fun. An appetizer dinner offered something to please everyone! Sparkling apple cider had the kids in good spirits! We headed out for fireworks and sparklers! The torch sparklers were lots of fun for Charlie and Livy. Sissy worries about fire and won’t get close! These fireworks were fun! Called “shock the monkey” and gave fun bursts of light! The Saran Wrap ball is a yearly favorite! It went fast and I didn’t get pics of everyone! The scratch offs are coveted and Pops won on his ticket! We passed time to midnight watching and singing along as our favorite country artists performed a new year’s concert in Nashville!  

Sarah Graves and I enjoy walking along the lake’s edge, skipping stones, and taking in the beauty. It also makes for fun pictures! This girl is fun, keeps me busy, and calls me out when I act old! So glad to have her!  

Sissy had the desire to do a polar plunge and New Year’s Eve with light wind, sunny skies, and temps about 52 degrees felt right for it!   Livy decided to join her and Charlie said he had no desire to be cold! She didn’t dally in jumping in!  She acknowledged the cold, but swam around looking like a mermaid!  Livy made the leap and as soon as she did, she knew it was not for her! Looking forward to a warm shower! Sis was feeling quite proud to stay in for several minutes! Cold, but very happy!