Happy New Year!

We didn't do much for New Years Eve. I had been to the doctor that day and finally received some antibiotics. So we laid low and took it easy. But we partied on New Years Day!

For the past few years, we have been invited to Jack's birthmom's family Christmas/New Years Eve party and we always have a great time. They are a loving family and I feel blessed to be with them.

Jack's birthmom knew exactly what to get him for Christmas - Thomas! He loves Thomas trains.

It took Jack awhile to warm up but after lots of grapes and attention, he started to go wild. Here he is with Uncle D and family. (Sorry about the red eyes!)

Jack's birthmom's family has this old house close to the house they live in now. They worked on the log home last year and now it is a fun place for the young to hang out, play cards, Rock Band, air hockey, or karaoke.

"1, 2, 3, Kick!"

This year, the family decided to do some wine taste testing. It was a fun addition to the festivities.

And then, the most anticipated event of the year - the white elephant gift exchange.

Some people get creative. I usually bring something that I want to come home with me. That way, if no one else likes it, at least I won't be disappointed if I end up with it. Some funny gifts this year - an apron and singing deer. It's a good thing these guys have great senses of humor.

Mike ended up with Jim Bean marinating sauces, while Jack and I ended up with a bottle of wine and this beautiful cross stitched piece. (Jack fell asleep during the second half of the exchange so I decided he really wanted the cross stitched piece!) I love handmade items.

Earlier that day, Jack was spoiled with lots of gifts from the family. He received books, balls, a stuffed bear and stuffed deer.

Although it looks like he would have been happy with a BBQ baster.

Happy New Year!

Extra, extra holiday pictures

As seen from my camera.

Mom and Meaghan watch the procession as the choir sings, "Silent Night."

Jack, before or after the meltdowns?

Isn't he precious!

Hey, isn't my brother Steven too old for these?

Oh, it's a beautiful afghan from my sister-in-law.

Mike was my brother Doug's secret Santa. Along with a couple of other things, Mike bought him these Toy Story army legos.

Who said real men don't wear bows?

Enjoying a moment with Garrett.

Our dog Molly asks, "Where's my gift?"

The 2009 edition of the classic box gift. OSFM.

Jack loves his new dinosaur from Uncle Billy and Aunt Mary.

We actually had a white Christmas! It flurried for three days. And, yes, I realize Jack's gloves are pink. They were available and he's too young to have an identity crisis. He looks so cute in those boots.

Apparently, even table cloth has a back-up. I bet mom really loves me after this post.

Santa left some gifts at home for Jack, including a truck and fake food.

Does this green thing look like a french fry to you? Maybe a moldy one?

I'm looking forward to another short week and more family time this week. We see Jack's birth mom and her family on New Years Day! Their Christmas/News Years Day party is always a blast. Just need to find one more white elephant gift.

A Merry Little Christmas

We are enjoying our Christmas vacation. It is flying by so fast.

We attended Christmas Eve mass back home, one of our annual traditions. You have to arrive an hour before mass begins if you want a good seat. A children's procession begins the mass celebration.

First and second grade girls carry baby Jesus on their shoulders. At the end of the procession, the priest places Jesus in the manger.

Boys join the procession too. Older boys carry candles.

My brother Doug led the adult choir.

After mass, we took the traditional picture by the manger. Do we look like the parents of a boy who had two melt downs in church?

We actually opened Christmas gifts from family before mass because we knew the kids would need to go to sleep when we came back home.

Mike received another computer geek book. :)

Cousin Christopher being silly.

Jack gave Meaghan a Little Pet Shop toy.

Jack opened gifts from Santa on Christmas morning.

Then had fun with cousin Garrett that evening.

Forget the toys. Looks like Santa should have brought Jack a flashlight. He decided to explore Grandpa and Grandma's house.

We hope you are having a wonderful holiday.