Christmas! Part 1

Wow...all I can say is that we had a awesome Christmas this year. I wasn't sure because leading into it with everyone sick and the whole "in the spirit thing" not being there I wasn't too optimistic. Dave and I had the pleasure of Sarah's company on the Eve and the day. It is always fun when she is here. We just hung out all day while Dave cleared the driveway...for 3 hours!!! He was determined to rid it of the ice!

We got a nice phone call from family in Oregon....miss you guys!!!

Then in the afternoon we got a great visit from Santa and Santa Jr.

Santa Jr. wants to thank uncle Tom, aunt Lynette and family for the awesome snowy owl. Owls are his favorite thing right now.

He was more interested in the owl ornament than the pile of presents spread around the room. He is standing up from the middle of the floor now and walking everywhere.....he doesn't care to crawl when he

can walk!!

Aunt Sarah assisted in the unwrapping starting with a bear from Great Grandma and Grandpa Ward. I am not sure what he liked best, the gifts or the paper! He had a long day and was so tired when he got here so he was only interested for a little while..after that he was most content to carry a few toys around...and around....and around the living room.

We got Jesse a weight set and I was wondering how to wrap it.....Santa Dave said he would take care of it. When Jesse opened his package he found a straw and 2 round cardboard discs.....well worth the look on his face!!! Dave informed him it was a kit and assembly was required. Soon after he figured out the puzzle........way to go Dave!! Too cute!

I put together a photo album for Amy of Lukas's first year.......surprise, I had some pictures!!! I was very gratified that she loved it, with a few tears around the room. I was able to sneak the disc out of their camera and onto my flash-drive so I was able to include a lot of photos of the times when I am not there to (over) document his life!!!! I had such a great time working on it and remembering.

Every year Dave has done a little shopping of his own. I am not even sure when he does it, but he always has one gift hidden away for everyone.

This year he had this for Lukas.

He was so excited to bring it out and show him.

As you can see it was a HUGE hit with someone!!!!

Faster aunt Sarah faster!!!!

Lukas took a break from the action for a little snooze and after that a little chat with grandpa. I am sure he was wishing him a Happy Birthday. Grandpa shares his B-day with Christmas.

At the end of the end of the day it is the time with family that makes all the difference. We get to spend tomorrow with my side of the family and we look forward to the fun , food and camaraderie. Wishing we could spend time with the rest of the family. You live so far away, but know you are always in our hearts and minds. It was great to at least be able to talk over the phone for a few. We shall see you soon.

Stay tuned for more!!!