Counting Down the Days....

Even before the kids were born, Matt's mom has always gotten Matt and I each an advent calendar with cardboard doors that houses little pieces of chocolate behind each of the days in December leading up to Christmas. I think Matt looks forward to this almost more than any present he gets. Since we have been together this is one ritual that I can honestly say he practices religiously. From December 1st through the 25th, there is never a morning that is missed to get his tiny chocolate surprise. This year is the first year that Harper can comprehend the tradition as well - mainly because it is the only time he is allowed to have chocolate before going to school and trust me, he relishes the opportunity.

As I have witnessed this annual tradition over the last 10 days, I am concerned that I am going to have my hands full for many years to come. This is a quick run down of the morning advent calendar ritual....

*As with the previous 10 days, we use the advent chocolate to entice Harper out the door.
*As with the previous 10 days, one piece of chocolate doesn't seem to suffice so he cons my piece of chocolate as well. But, today we realize that I had inadvertently skipped a couple of days so Harper is able to score 3 pieces of chocolate. Not wanting to stop at 3, Harper reaches for Matt's advent calendar to try and swipe his chocolate.
*From Harper's bedroom, all I hear is "No, Harper that is mine. You can't have daddy's chocolate - you already had yours." Screaming and wailing comes from the kitchen. I don't even want to know whose cries they were and who ended up scoring the candy!

I'm sure you can understand why I am counting down the days....and it isn't for the chocolate.

p.s.

Also thought I would share a picture of Harper and Collier in action. They really are starting to enjoy each other. Everytime I think Harper is hurting Collier, all I can see is the biggest grin on Collier's face.  It truly is a sight to be seen!