Oma's Birthday and the Elf - Week of Nov. 28th

It's not often you're able to surprise someone, really surprise them.  We were honored to be able to celebrate Oma and her birthday in person on Dec. 1st as we provided an unexpected appearance at dinner in Muskegon.
She doesn't want us to mention her age, but she does share a birthday with Woody Allen and he is one year older than she is.  Cam was super excited about the evening as we made it to Olive Garden right before Oma and Opa.  When Oma spotted us from the hostess stand, you could tell we were successful!  Many thanks to Opa for his part in keeping the secret.

Cam checking out dessert
at the next table!

It was no coincidence that Cam chose our restaurant for the evening.  Olive Garden now has an tablet for ordering, playing games and paying your bill.  Pretty high tech stuff and highly irresistible for a nine-year-old.
Another unexpected treat was a free kids meal since Cam found the "elf" hiding up high even though he told us "it doesn't look like the other elf on the shelf."

Our family only began the "Elf on the Shelf" tradition a couple of years ago.  Cam named the elf Gerrit and this season, Cam's been especially interested in finding the red-suited guy every morning to see where he shows up.  It's quite curious, though, how the elf may be connected to something that a parent needs to use, such as headphones.  Since the elf cannot be touched or he will lose his magic, the ear device then stays connected to the elf all day long.

'Gerrit' was found holding a blue sharpie and upside down one morning in an empty container.  A note on the plastic house read "Help I fell in and can't get out now!!! Please turn container over."
Upon seeing this entire scene, Cam looked at his parents and said, "Now how did the elf write the note?"  Hmmm, yes, curious minds want to know.
Chris was convinced (and persuaded Cam) that the elf had the ability to ink the request from the inside of the container while upside down.  That's one crafty elf!

As we celebrated Oma this week, we're constantly reminded of all she has helped instill in Cam... a love of music, enjoyment of books, and appreciation of baking.  Here's to you, Oma!
“Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.” 
~ Dr. Seuss, Happy Birthday to You!

Camology Quotes:

As colder temperatures are upon us, the family moved seasonal coats upstairs for easier access.
Chris tried on a warmer jacket one morning and asked Cam if he liked it.
"It suits you, Dad!"