weekend pics (victoria)

the weekend seemed to pass too quickly. yet, the days themselves slowly unfolded with eating and movie watching and game playing and crafting.  we seem to have come to a predictable routine when we visit our family in victoria that involves hunkering down and relaxing.  it's a good thing.

we also enjoyed some Christmas-y events: 
                     
                         * a cheesy truck parade was actually quite fun and silly,
                         * viewing christmas trees at the empress hotel,
                         * making gingerbread cookies, and
                         * wreath making at elk lake

stefan?  he was happy at home with a nice block of time to play video games and watch loud movies.



 



fun with pastels



indulging in mint ice cream... so very good





india's interpretation of me taking a photo of a rainbow





kai inspired ruben to create a snakes and ladder game... very cool

 

saturday's Christmas-y activities: 





 

   

 

 

sunday's christmas-y activities:

 

 

 



kai happily scavenged around for materials

 

 

 

 

on the ferry ride into victoria one of the passengers strummed his guitar and played christmas music; much to the delight of kai (who snapped this photo), i, and the other passengers.  it was exactly what i love most about the season: being surrounded by warmth, joy, and merriment.  it was lovely.  thank you guy-with-guitar!