Is it really done already? Christmas was fantastic as usual, but went incredibly too fast. It's not fair that such a special, magical time is done in the blink of an eye.
As always, the holiday kicked off early with "Porth Christmas". It was great to see my cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents all under one roof. The time together is rare, but I think we all cherish it fully. I took hardly any pictures, but I guess that's what happens when you have kids. Right Jess, Emily and Stevi?
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| Emma: 16 months Levi: 2.5 |
We visited Santa and he didn't seem to phase her.
We made it up to Minnesota to celebrate. The last two years they had to come to Ames due to Matt's work schedule, so it was nice to get up there this time.
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| A baby doll and stroller from aunt Stacy, Uncle Chad and cousin Maddy |
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| Emma loved her some cousin Maddy time |
We got back to Ames mid-day on Christmas Eve in time to unpack before celebrating with my family. Christmas Eve service is always my favorite, but a little more difficult to enjoy while trying to keep a toddler quiet. I think next year we will take her to the church nursery. After church we did our usual appetizers for dinner and opening presents. It was a bit of a whirlwind as we didn't know when Emma would hit her wall considering she usually goes to bed at 7:00. She surprised us all and didn't hit her wall until 9:30. Must have been from all the excitement that Christmas brings.
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| Such excitement for the kitchen set from Papa and Nana |
Christmas morning was spent at home as a family of three and it was perfect. Before we had Emma, Matt and I agreed that it is important to us that should his work travel allow, being at OUR home on Christmas morning was a must. We are lucky that both of our families get it and understand us wanting to spend some time just us and start our own traditions. It was simple and relaxing and spent just enjoying Emma. We ended the day with a delicious prime rib dinner and opening stockings over at my parents before heading home and watching a little Elf before bed.
It's hard to believe that next year we will be celebrating the holidays as a family of four and getting to see our girls together during this special time of year. I can't wait.
"Christmas waves a magic wand over this world and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful."
Yup...I hear ya on the picture taking. Love all of these! So sweet.
ReplyDeleteEmma is way too cute! Your family photo by the tree looks like it's from a magazine. Glad you guys had a great Holiday! Can't wait to see you all (hopefully soon:)
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