Christmas Creations - Week of Dec. 11th

Christmas cookies and happy hearts, this is how the holiday starts. ~Unknown

Baking seems to put everyone in a good mood...some may think it's the scent of vanilla, or maybe the satisfaction of creating something so delicious from a smattering of ingredients.  In our home, it may be best described as feeling wrapped in a warm blanket.
Cam had the opportunity to be an assistant as well as a supervisor for the holiday baking.  We found a sugar cookie kit made by a couple of kids who donate all of their proceeds to the local children's hospital.  The kit included the dry ingredients and Amanda and Cam just added in the eggs, vanilla, baking soda and shortening.  It was Ms. Amanda's first experience of rolling out homemade cookie dough and using cookie cutters and we think the dynamic duo did a fabulous job!
A few days later, Oma arrived with Christmas tree cookies ready for decorations.  After adding the frosting and embellishments, these special treats were set aside for our family Santa party, scheduled for a couple of days after Christmas.  In between all of these activities, Cam assisted Chris with making homemade peanut butter.  For the project with his mom, Cam enjoyed making candles.
We had our family pictures taken a bit later this year, but Holly and Ryan Gauper did an awesome job (as always) just in time for induction into our Christmas card.  Just a couple of the forty they sent us electronically are shown here.  A memorial garden in downtown Muskegon was the setting and Cam turned on his best cheesy grin.  Since Jane handled the holiday card creation, Chris and his son busied themselves with "Operation Postage" as they stuffed the envelopes, added
tags, return labels and stamps.

The Elf continued his shenanigans in our household, providing an exciting start to every morning. 
Cam's first priority upon leaving his bedroom is finding where the little guy landed. 
His parents' priority is remembering to assist in this endeavor!




Camology Quotes:

Cam sees his physical therapist, Patrick, on a weekly basis as he continues to strengthen his leg from hip surgery.  Patrick and Cam have some pretty interesting conversations during their sessions.  On one occasion, Patrick asked Cam about having issues with his leg feeling discomfort during the day.

"Not necessarily, but typically I do stretching at school."