It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas

The Esquivels are starting to get into the Christmas groove. This morning started out with family Christmas pictures (including Ellee). Jessi was more interested in showing off her shoes than in taking pictures. Thanks Jen for helping her remember to smile. We put up the tree (including lights) when Jessi took her nap. This was the quickest we have ever put up the tree. She was very interested in the tree, especially the lights, when she came downstairs after her nap. Jessi was thrilled to help decorate the tree. We placed the less fragile ornaments on the branches within her reach. Her favorite ornament today has been a little cardinal.

Jenny has been baking cookies the last couple days and finished up today. Jessi helped sprinkle the sprinkles on Grandpa Ftacek's favorite cookies. She ate up one cookie and then asked for more! We haven't finished the outside lights yet (due to the weather), but are hoping tomorrow will be a nice day for that.

Zilker Tree Lighting

On Sunday, we went to the Zilker Tree Lighting. This was the first time that we have gone to the tree lighting. Jessica was fascinated with lights and kept looking up. She preferred to stay in mommy or daddy's arms instead of playing with two of her friends that we met for the lighting ceremony and dinner. What a fun holiday outing!

About the Zilker Tree: The Zilker Tree Stands 155 feet tall and is composed of 39 streamers, each holding 81 multicolored, 25 watt bulbs, totaling 3,309 lights. At the top of the tree, a double star measures 10 feet from point to point. The double star displays 150 frosted bulbs. This unique spiral pattern of lights was created by City of Austin electricians. At its circumference, the tree measures 380 feet. The diameter is 120 feet. The base of the tree is made up of 19 utility poles, each 14 feet tall, arranged in a circle around the Moonlight Tower.

Happy Thanksgiving

The Esquivels have much to be thankful for --- health, happiness, family and friends, love. As Jessica's art reminds us, we are extremely thankful for the little things in life, especially Jessica and Baby JAE. We wish you and your families a happy thanksgiving.

Baby Pics

I put the latest profile picture of Baby Esquivel on the side bar. Baby is growing quickly and will be here before we know it!

Anybody up for some soccer?

Jessi looked like a little soccer player today, especially when she played with the dogs' stuffed soccer ball. She must be practicing to be a goalie since she wants to pick up the ball more than kick it. Time will tell if she will want to play soccer. If she does, I'll have to pick up Soccer Moms for Dummies to learn more about the game.

Pizza Time

Today we thought it would be fun to make pizzas at home. Jessi had a great time spreading sauce and sprinkling cheese and diced canadian bacon on her pizza. She watched it in the oven and then wanted to eat it as soon as it was out. After letting it cool a little, she enjoyed her very own homemade pizza. We will have to do this again and perhaps experiment with other toppings.

Happy Veteran's Day

A big thank you to all the men and women who are serving our country now and those that have served in the past. I appreciate all that you do! A special thanks to my Dad who is an Air Force vet! Happy Veterans Day to all!