A German Canadian Adventure: Almost Christmas!

and these two little water rats are getting more and more excited for Christmas Eve (presents!) and Christmas Day (stockings!). But first we had things to do and places to go. Like, the pool. For their last swim class before the Christmas break.

And I think I have mentioned before that "Pandy" the koala is a vital part of the family now? Seriously, Finn acts like Pandy is his little brother!

Anyway. The little swimmers had the chance to earn their "Pirate"-badge last Tuesday. All the kids in the class succeeded, even the 5-year-olds like Lily. Pandy watched faithfully from the bench.

First, the kids needed to swim four lengths (100 meters) non-stop, doing breast stroke.

Then, they had to jump in from the starting block and swim under water for at least 5 meters. Here's Finn - he won this one hands down with his 15 meters. The trainer says once Finn learns to jump in head first he will be able to dive the whole length no problem.

After picking up some rings from the bottom of the pool the test was done and everyone was proud. None more so than the parents.

Neil was there too, poor eye sight or no poor eye sight. Thankfully, his eyes are improving and he's slowly getting in the holiday spirit.

Years ago we were given these beautifully made "Jesse tree" ornaments from a family friend and artist in Canada. Each ornament symbolizes a biblical event or person leading up to the birth of Jesus. There is a booklet that describes each one, and you can also read the relevant Bible passages. It is such a wonderful tradition and fun way to teach the children these stories. Here, Lily is explaining the story of Joseph, symbolized by his colorful coat, to Rosalie.

What's Christmas without music? Let me tell you - a lot more peaceful.

Lily is sticking more with the traditional Christmas songs on her triola

while Finn is winging it rockstar style

And since "I follow rivers" by Lykke Li is only played every half hour or so on the radio, Finn needs to tide us over in the meantime.

When we're not eating, sleeping or playing music we're probably busy making more to eat, like these candy cane reindeer. Finn and Lily made these to put on the tree, and so far they are still there. Amazing.

Rudolph the red nosed reindeer is a big hit around these parts.

As are snowmen. Sadly, all the snow outside has melted, so we made these "melting snowmen" cookies to keep with the spirit of a Green Christmas. Most of them we gave to friends and other children, and they were a big hit!