First Snow

We've had a few minor snow storms here in VA, but this week was our first real snow storm (that we were old enough to enjoy)!  10-12 inches fell here and we got to enjoy every great snow day activity. Our friends, the Poindexters, also love snow and decided to spend the day with us. It all started with building a snow man.

Unfortunately, it started out a little rough.  Mommy had to make a path in the snow for Ysabella to walk.  She wasn't too fond of sinking with every step.  Eventually, she got used to it and was proud to show off how well she could walk around. 

Though, maintaining your balance through deep snow can be tough and Mommy often heard cries from Ysabella about "getting dirty" and other shouts of, "I don't like that!"

Soon, the plows came down the street and created a perfect opportunity to dig a snow fort.  We started with a small opening.

And each took turns getting close to the entrance.

Once Anthony saw the tunnel form, he was the only one brave enough to help dig deep.

Digging tunnels gets really tiring so it didn't take long before a snowball fight broke out.  Anthony, being smaller and less agile than the older kids, was left behind to snowball fight his own opponent.  He carefully and calmly gathered snow and packed it tight to create ammo.

Then aimed and let loose.

I think it's pretty safe to say that we all know who the winner of this snowball fight is.

After a little warm up, nap, and refueling we all trekked to the Poindexter estate to continue the snow day fun. Daddy was most excited to play with the 4-wheeler.

And the kids didn't hate it either! 

All in all, we had a great day off.  Ysabella took some time to enjoy the cold atmosphere, but Mommy and Anthony could have played outside all day.

Soon the sun was setting and the ice/snow that was falling felt like daggers in your face, particularly at high speeds on an all wheel drive, ride on vehicle.  Finally, it was time for Ysabella's favorite snow day ritual.  Hot cocoa with marshmallows.

Cheers to lazy, cozy days off with family and friends!  We hope everyone stays safe and warm and can spend time with their loved ones. 

And remember, little Nicastros, never put your cold hands or feet on Daddy's bare skin! 

XOXOX

The Dink

 What is The Dink? A coin, a shape, or a hated (by some) nickname? The Dink is our very own Ysabella Sophia, who like a shape has many sides.  Like most toddlers, she has her "moments" OR she can be sweet and cuddly.

Or artsy (complete with proper/unique attire...)

Or a fashionista (fashion comes full circle, right? Like bell bottoms?)

You may even see her musical side with, The Dink: Live in Concert

Which Dink is Mommy and Daddy's favorite? The adorable, lovable, funny, smart, sweet, ticklish, thoughtful, silly, inquisitive, huggable, polite, energetic, smiley, and all around amazing Dink!! 

We love you, Ysabella Sophia. And its been amazing watching all of the sides of you grow and develop.

xoxox

Christmas List

The Nicastro Family braved a nearly two hour wait time, crying babies, line jumpers, sleep deprived children, malnourished children, bathroom breaks, crowds, being over charged, wrong packages, peppermint lollipop drool, body soreness, and arm fatigue all to tell Santa Claus our Christmas Wish List.  

With a picture like this, Mommy thinks it was all worth it.  

Happy Holidays and Remember a little patience goes a long way (and can sometimes be worth it).

xoxox

Holiday Traditions

'Tis the season rich with holiday customs. In the Nicastro house, we are just begining to create our own family traditons.  Mommy started an activity advent calendar to get us all in the spirit of the holidays. First up, making and sending Christmas cards.

Which can sometimes be a challenge.

Thank goodness for big sisters.

According to Anthony, we also built a "spaceship". 

The rest of us know this as a gingerbread house and Elfie, who still visits the house regularly during the holiday season, decided to lend a helping hand.

Perhaps the favorite new tradition is trying warm "hot cocoa" complete with marshmellows.

And wearing our santa themed jammies.

Holiday cheers to all.

Remember little Nicastros always check your hot cocoa before you end up with a burnt tongue! (ouch)

Xoxox

25 Day 'Til Santa

It's December and the Nicastro kids are ready to celebrate! Not only do we begin our advent calendars but Elfie came back! Ysabella was very cautious about Elfie's arrival, pausing on the stairs and refusing to look for him by herself

Anthony was much less afraid and ran straight to Elfie's first hiding spot.

This year Santa sent a letter with Elfie telling the kids to be good and to write him a letter.

Luckily, our activity calendar had the kids writing wish lists to Santa today.

They quickly got to work picking out the perfect pencils and feverishly writing down their wants. (Mommy only helped a little bit with spelling)

When they were all done we folded them up and sealed them in an envelope to send to the North Pole.

And of course took some pictures (cuz Mommy loves to document everything)

Tis the season little Nicastros

And remember to always say Thank You (it helps keep you on the 'nice' list)

Birthdays and Basketballs

This weekend we threw a party for Anthony's birthday. This years cake? Basketball, of course!

After singing Happy Birthday to himself with the rest of the party, he jumped right to blowing out his candles.

All that was left to do? DIG IN!

Yum!

Like any birthday party, gift opening followed cake.  Anthony was a bit unsure of what to do with his wrapped presents.

Thankfully, his big sister, Ysabella, was nearby to show him what to do.

All in all the party was great and "Dunk" (as Grandma likes to affectionately call Anthony) thoroughly enjoyed everything basketball.

Happy Birthday, Anthony!

And many thanks to all those who helped celebrate and were more than generous!

Birthday Boy!

It's that time of year again, little Anthony is quickly growing into a very active and happy 2 year old. The family celebrated with dinner and cupcakes at home.

Blue frosting not only tastes great but looks even better!

 

 Anthony used his face more than teeth when attacking his cupcake in the daintiest manner.

All that was left to do was open gifts and ignore everyone else as he played with his new favorite toys.

 

All in all, it was a great day of celebration and love. 

 

Happy Birthday, Anthony Francis! May the years of happiness continue.

Thanks to all for the many birthday wishes and thoughtful gifts!

XoXoX