Christmas fun

So I've gotten to take A LOT of outings for some fun this Christmas season.

While Katie was back East, mom and I decided to have a couple of mother-daughter dates, and saw two really adorable movies: Hugo and Arthur Christmas.  Both movies were completely adorable.  Those of you with kids, perfect family movies.  Hugo is based on the book the Invention of Hugo Cabret, which is one of my favorite children's books (told through words and pictures).  Of course, last night when we were trying to pick a Christmas movie, Katie informed us that she was furious that we went without her.  Not that she ever told us she wanted to see either of them.  On the other hand, I'm completely furious that she got to see our family and some of my favorite people in the world while I had to work, so fair's fair.  :)

Perhaps my favorite song of the night!

Hopefully, I made up for it though with her first Christmas present.  I took Katie to see the musical Young Frankenstein last weekend while it was in town.  We went to dinner at The Hills (seen featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives) first, and then enjoyed a couple house of laughter.  The play was hilarious, and I enjoyed it as much as the movie.  The lead definitely had moments of channeling Gene Wilder during the evening. While maybe not the full Broadway production, it was still a great time.  Thanks for clearing your schedule to go with me Katie; hope you liked it!

This week, I've been off school and enjoying my free time.  I decided that I wouldn't do any of my grading this week (which means I'll have two sets of papers to grade after Christmas).  Worth it though.  I've been hanging out with family and friends who have been arriving in town for the holidays.  My favorite outing, though, has to have been my lunch and movie date with the lovely Church ladies.  Lisa and daughter Lindsey and Lauren met me downtown on Tuesday for lunch at the Red Robin and then The Muppet movie.  I surprised the girls with a bag of candy for the movies and treats (play dough, silly putty, etc.)  We had a great time, and it was so fun getting to catch up with Lisa.  We barely ever get to really talk at church.  I got to sit between my two little gals during the movie, and had a little snuggle time.  Thanks for the date girls.  I can't wait to do it again!

So with Christmas quickly approaching, I'm looking forward to some family time and seeing more visiting friends.  And if anyone has ideas for our Christmas movie, we're taking suggestions as our first choice The Artist is not playing in Spokane right now.  Merry Christmas everyone!