We had a long and involved list of activities to do with Nana and Papa JJ. But, once the adults started getting sick one by one, we had to prioritize. Instead of going into the forest to cut down a tree, we went to a tree farm. The morning we went tree hunting, an ideal amount of snow fell at the right elevation and so looking for a tree was extra beautiful. I mean, check it out! This year, I wanted a fuller tree because those are harder to come by in the wild. And I'd say we found her! Getting the tree home and lit and decorated all went really well. Maeve was a little confused as to why she didn't have some of the same ornaments as her sisters (she had yet to be born those years). Surprisingly, the babies have been very kind to the tree. I'm impressed and relieved to not have to police the tree.

A Muirhead tradition! Chocolate making! We were so happy to make chocolates this year with Catherine and Jim. It's lovely quality time and "work" that just about every family member can participate in especially if one doesn't feel too fussy about the outcome. And now they're all we want to eat.

Here are Conor and his dad, Jim, playing the longest game of chess ever. What do all these men/baby have in common? Their middle names are the first name of their fathers.

USA opened its border to Canadians! Hooray! I can hardly believe how long the border has been closed and I'm so happy it's open again! My mom came down for a short visit and seeing her in my home with my family was joyful! I can't say we're in the most exciting or adventurous phase of our lives, but we got out and rode the carousel, visited a book store, and hiked. My mom made cream puffs with Holly and sponge toffee with Greta. We played cribbage, watched a movie, walked the dog and visited. I love my mom!

This little hike is 12 minutes away from our house and I've been meaning to hike it with my family for a while. We finally did it! Our Saturdays can be so blah (because 5 kids and babies), but Conor and I would really like to do something on the weekends. So this weekend was it! We packed snacks, bundled up and went. I'm so glad we did. It was so great to be outside and fun to explore a new spot. It's definitely one to return to.