Letter to Santa

You know how hectic Christmas Eve is right?  We've been to church, have to get dinner and us parents, just want Bryce in bed so we can get all the presents under the tree.  Of course, I almost forgot that Bryce had to leave food and a letter to Santa!  Here he is hard at work at 8 PM.

 

Santa Train

Some of you may know that Andy LOVES trains.  You heard that right. . . . the almost 40 year old man, Andy LOVES trains.  They will always hold a special place in his heart because his grandfather built model steam engines.  So, when we heard there was a Santa Train south of Las Vegas from a friend late Friday night, we decided we had to go the next day! 

The Santa Train was at the Nevada State Railroad Museum in Boulder City.  Here are some pictures to a wonderful family day on a beautiful December day. 

Bryce sending his letter to Santa!

We got to go on a short ride on the 1875 restored Eureka steam engine. 

The history of this train and restoration is amazing!

 

Bryce and Andy riding the miniature trains like his grandfather built. 

Can you see the smile on his face?

Pararescue Visit

Our friend, Paul Tower, is in a helicopter squadron here at Nellis who's mission is to rescue other military members in need.  Their motto is "That others may live."  It's quite an amazing and unique mission!

We were invited to their Christmas party where Bryce got to talk to a Perarescue operator!  The nice young man had all of his equipment that he uses and Bryce was fascinated.  He asked lots of questions and got to touch some of the equipment! 

Here Bryce is with the Perarescue Operator. 

Bryce is just a little excited to try on the helmet with night vision goggles.  Paul Tower's family --Kristin, Abby and Benjamin in the background. 

Bryce decorated a cookie for the operator to say thank you and gave it to him:)

 

The beautiful helicopter against a desert sunset!

 

 

The Nutcracker

We started the tradition of going to the Nutcracker in 2011 with Auntie Laura and try to continue the tradition every year that we can.  We got to go with our "Vegas family" this year. . .Kristin, Abby and her friend, Gabby.  Bryce's favorite scene is still the sword fight!

Las Vegas Wetlands

I know what you are thinking . . .a wetland in the desert of Las Vegas?  I was quite shocked too!  The wetlands exist on the city outskirts because it's a wash where all of the water in the city is directed. . .all the way from Mount Charleston to Lake Mead. The 210-acre nature preserve has wildlife, ponds and plants that is a habitat for over 300 species and animals.  In addition to the outdoor trails, a new visitor center opened recently that has many hands-on exhibits for children. 

Here are a few pictures from our December visit.  These are our friends, Doris, Edwin and Emmaline. 

 

Red Rock Hike

Our friend, Sandra, suggested that we limit our classes in December so we would have time to visit places around Las Vegas.  It sounded like a great idea to me, especially since she was willing to be our tour guide! 

So, one beautiful Vegas day, we went to Red Rock Canyon.  Red Rock is only about 45 minutes from us and has stunning views.  I felt a little guilty hiking and enjoying the warm sun while my family in Ohio were in a deep freeze:)  Vegas in the winter is pretty nice!

Bryce and his friends!

 

 

The picture is a little dark but you get the idea!

 

Nursing Home Concert

Bryce and children from his co-op put on a holiday concert for a few nursing homes in the local area.  Most of the songs were popular Christmas carols but some of the kids did a ballet and tap dance piece.  Bryce got to play the drums for Little Drummer Boy.  It was a nice way to kick off the holidays!