Unexpected Visitors

A good friend of ours was kind enough to surprise us with some special holiday visitors.   We rarely have anyone knock at our door, so it was quite a shock when we opened the door and saw Sinterklaas and Black Pete standing there.  The kids were a bit overwhelmed, but once they saw the gifts and the cookies, they started to warm up to the idea.  I think, Sint and Pete, are among some of the most interesting holiday characters you will find throughout the world.  

It has been fun for us to learn about and experience some new traditions.

Haircuts

Here are some pics from our latest outing to the hair salon.  The whole family gets their hair cut at the University's hair salon.  It is located in the same building as Johnny's office.  It is convenient and the lady who works there is super nice.  

The first time Collin got his hair cut, he screamed the whole time.  Nothing has changed.  This was his reaction when we arrived at the salon.

He was squirming and crying the whole time.  I had to really struggle to hold his head still most the time.  I think at this point he was starting to get tired and give up.

All done.  His shirt is covered in hair, because he refuses to wear the cape.

It was Ethan's turn next.  As you can see from those wings over his ears, it was long overdue.

I was a little worried he would imitate his big brother and start screaming...

but he did great. He sat still and quiet the whole time.

All done.

Heading home.

Our Efteling Weekend

Last weekend, we were able to enjoy an all expenses paid weekend at the Efteling theme park here in The Netherlands.  Thanks to some generous sponsors, Collin's whole pre-school and their families were able to stay overnight at the Efteling Hotel and get spoiled with lots of food, toys, flowers, candy, and even spending money for inside the park.

Collin also got to spend the whole weekend with his best friend from school.  They were so cute together.  There were tears when they had to separate and lots of hugs and smiles when they met up again.  We had a really great time.

Food

Friend

Fun

Riding to School

One of the highlights of our week is when we get to take Collin to school.  It is such a beautiful bike ride.  I have to admit that when it is windy or cold, I start missing my car and complaining a bit, but once I get out there I really enjoy myself.  Here are some pics of what Johnny and I get to see along the way.

First we head down the bike path in front of out apartment.

Then past the pond.

Stop at the light.  I think these stoplights with the bike on them are so cute.

Then we enter the forest....

and it starts to get really pretty.

We arrive at the building.

Park the bikes.

Head down the hallway...

and hang up his jacket.  His hook is the one with the little porcupine.

This is the waiting room, where we wait for class to start.

Time to head in the door.  Ethan always wishes he could go too.  Collin's group is called Pinokkio.

The classroom

Another playroom that the kids get to use

This is a room with a one way screen where the parents can observe their child without them knowing you are there.  I thought that was a really good idea, and has really helped me see how he is doing during school.

Waiting for class to start.  It was pet day, so that is why the teacher has a dog.