Christmas

It was a Star Wars Christmas for the adults, with the HGE theme being "The Force Awakens". Our little tree followed the theme, with visions of Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Princess Leia, and Storm Troopers dancing on the branches. HGE has been a tradition for several years, and it's always fun to find ways to promote it in tree decor.

Another tradition for a few years has been having the elf cousins hand out presents for each other. Headgear--elf hats, reindeer antlers and such--is expected. I thought maybe the cousins had outgrown that kind of silliness, but Ethan inquired in mid-December about what they'd be wearing on their heads to give out gifts, so Amazon prime was called into action. I'm learning never to assume!  Here are the sweet and excited cousins, ready for making deliveries.

A lava lamp for Hannah

A starlight lantern for Vivi

Miles can't wait to dig a gem and open up his new weather station.

Owen, wearing spy glasses that allow him to see if 

someone is sneaking up behind him.

Who is this cousin in full spy disguise??

May the force be with you...

And also with you! 

The HGE was fun, as always, with clever children and children-in-law who shared thematically appropriate gifts with each other and with us... light saber grill lighter, fun articles of Star Wars clothing, Princess Leia bread basket, Yoda candy dispenser, Death Star  waffle maker, and more. The best I could do was these silly character aprons. Odd? Yes... but aren't they cute?