Christmas with the Dieckman's 2013

We were blessed to spend Christmas with Denny, Kathy, and Zan who traveled our way for the holidays.  To kick off the holiday season we all met in New Orleans to partake in the Papa Noel Tea at the Ritz.  This was our chance to see Santa before the big day.  As part of the tea each child received a special Christmas platter filled with treats that included way too much sugar.  In fact, Avery, who did not inherit his daddy's sweet tooth, pushed his plate away after sampling only a couple of his delectables.  Audrey, who has an insatiable appetite for sweets, was in heaven.  Towards the tail end of tea, Papa Noel, made an appearance.  I was pleased to see Avery, Amelia, and Audrey were all thrilled to see this version of Santa, showing mom that the magic is still real for all my children.  Our final tea activity included decorating ginger bread cookies.  Amelia took the prize for "most covered cookie", with every inch of her cookie covered with cookie toppings.  

We stayed the night at the Roosevelt, which was decorated beautifully for the holidays. 

After our stay in New Orleans we all headed to Biloxi to enjoy our time together as a family.  Kathy, Zan, and myself all prepared a Christmas feast, with the exception of a fried turkey, which Shane and Denny picked up from a local caterer.  Unfortunately, just about the time we were ready to throw our goodies into the oven, our government issued gas oven decided to die.  Luckily, my next door neighbor was not using her oven and generously let me finish our baking at her house!  After Christmas Dinner we headed to our church in Ocean Springs for a meaningful Christmas service, which ended in candle light and the singing of Silent Night. 

After our return from church the kids quickly put together a plate for Santa, with a couple of special notes from the big guy, and left the reindeer some food on the front lawn, which is still there as I write this.  The kids quickly hurried themselves upstairs and willed themselves to sleep, hoping to quicken the approach of Christmas Day.

Our final family outing for the holiday season was a visit to Bellingrath Gardens.  Bellingrath Gardens is a botanical garden located close to Mobile, Alabama and puts on one heck of light show over the holidays.  We had crisp weather that was just perfect for sipping hot chocolate and soaking up the endless light displays.  

Christmas Photos 2013

This photo was pictured on the front of our 2013 Christmas cards and was taken at the Davis Bayou in Ocean Springs, MS.  

This was our second choice for Christmas cards.  However, Shane really wanted a picture with the bayou in the background.  He is a man who loves to reminisce with old pictures that show people as well as location.  

Avery Dennis Dieckman (age 8) 

Amelia Lynn Dieckman (age 6)

Audrey Estelle Dieckman (age3)

My trio!

We are looking for an alligator that permanently hangs out at the Davis Bayou.

Summing up December

Christmas is nipping at our heals and I feel as though December has been moving at warp speed. Here are a few of our latest activities. 

1.  The kids wrote letters to Santa, addressed the envelopes, put a stamp on the outside, and threw them in the mail.  Avery wants a Lego 10195 Republic Dropship with AT-OT.  Wanting Legos is no shocker, but wanting something so specific was a challenge for Santa.  Amelia changed her mind last minute.  Originally she wanted "Paige" the American Girl doll of the year, which Santa had already purchased, and instead wrote down "cat".  She knows Santa will only bring a stuffed cat, but secretly is praying Santa will bring a real cat.  Audrey wants a castle with a princesses inside.  I suspect Sophia the First is responsible for this wish. 

2.  Avery and Amelia have been practicing for weeks for their Christmas piano recital.  Shane and I encouraged the kids to engage in the art of over practicing, so as to avoid showtime jitters.  Avery practiced so much he played his by memory.  Amelia was so nervous I was sure she would crack but played her song flawlessly.   

3.  Shane's medical group held a 1920's themed Christmas party.  We rented costumes thinking we might be the only couple dressed the part.  However, we were happily surprised to see many couples dressed the part. 

4.  A highlight for December was a guided historical tour in the French District of New Orleans for our homeschool group.  Jill, our tour guide, did a fabulous job keeping all kids engaged.  She discussed the importance of the Mississippi River, provided a timeline activity showcasing those who once occupied the area, told engaging stories of trade, and touched on slavery. The kids most enjoyed Jill discussing how life would have been for them during the 1800's.   

5.  After our tour the kids and I headed to the famous Cade Du Monde for some beignets and hot chocolate.  It was the perfect way to end our day.  

Flag Football 2013

This flag football season Shane took the bull by the horns and decided to pursue a dream of his, coaching Avery.  Shane was the assistant football coach for Avery's team and enjoyed every moment of trying to round up and teach a team full of crazy boys.  He did a great job as the offensive coach by running a variety of plays and making sure every player had gained experience in each position.  Avery flourished with his dad as coach and often asked Shane to go outside and play catch in their spare time, something Shane has been fantasizing about since Avery was born.  Avery enjoyed playing time as the quarterback, but as expected LOVES running with the ball most.  I know things will change, but at this moment football is Avery's favorite sport and something Shane and Avery enjoy watching and doing together.      

Pro right, motion left, 44 jet sweep...huh?  Avery, just hand the ball off to that guy standing behind you.

After further review, the ruling on the field stands as called, touchdown.

Love those shoes!

I can't believe it, they are actually keeping their hands to themselves in this picture.

He's draped all over him ref!  Just kidding, nice play boys.

Yes, even the coaches son took his turn on the sideline.

No smiling, Nick.  This is all business.

Remember Avery, take, shake, salute.  That's my boy!

Shane, Avery, and head coach, Apollo.  Great season Avery!