Christmas Day

Christmas morning was spent at Pat and Jim's. This is the first year Owen really understands Santa Claus so it was lots of fun.

coming down xmas morning

opening presents from santa

opening his stocking from santa

Maddi got in on the action too. Enjoying the paper and ribbons more than anything of course!

Owen and Maddi loved all the presents from Nonni Pat and Papa Jim

This shot is no doubt the result of still trying to figure out the new camera we got for Christmas from my Dad and Barbara, but I thought it was pretty cool. Shows the flurry of him opening gifts.

And their presents from Gigi

And their presents from Jen (Maddi's Godmother), Todd and Lucas

(in case you don't know by now, yes, they are spoiled and loved by so many people...)

Little miss Maddi all dressed up for the big day

It was a wonderful, relaxing day.

Christmas Eve

We spent Christmas Eve with Nonni Pat, Papa Jim, Uncle Thomas, Aunt Stacy and cousins Bennett, Caden and AnaKate.

The day started with a visit to Winter Wonderland. The kids seemed to really enjoy it. There are a lot of little village scenes and then some activities for the kids.
Owen's favorite activity of course was riding the train.

(note, there is a random kid in the back left corner, not one of ours in case you are trying to figure it out)

Owen waiting for round 2

And not following the rules by sticking his hand through the door. Argh.

Me and Maddi (I love this picture even though it's a little fuzzy)

Pat wanted some proof to show everyone that she is OVER 5 feet tall!!!

Later we went back to Pat and Jim's to have fun opening presents and enjoying a yummy lunch together. Owen just loves hanging out with his cousins and we had such a great day together. Maddi seems to really enjoy her little girl cousin too who is just a few months younger than her. I can't wait to see them grow up together.

Maddi loved her purse!

Owen got some Dinosaur Train loot which he of course thought was great

All of the kids made out pretty well

They all had lots of fun playing together. Maddi thought the boys were hilarious. Which they are.

After lots of fun, it was time for some quiet time before church.
We then went to mass and called it a night to get ready for the big day. This is the first year Owen understands Santa Claus so we read The Night Before Christmas and then put out some milk and cookies. What a great day.

Christmas Prep

Ok, I know some of these posts are coming late, but I'm playing a little catch up...

We enjoyed making Christmas goodies together as a family this year! Owen helped make butter cookies and Maddi supervised in her new (to her) exersaucer. It was a great team effort!

Owen's Winter Gala

Owen recently had his winter gala at school right before the holidays. Brett attended and took all of these pictures and videos since I was stuck at work. It was one of the hardest things I've had to overcome as a parent to date. It broke my heart to miss it. Although, it wasn't quite the crack-up the Fall Harvest gala was so I was thankful for that.

winter gala entrance

5 snowmen fat

Hanukkah candle

Jingle Bells

Here Owen is showing off a "treasure" from school for being good. He chose a bracelet. He was so proud! I feel better knowing it's not just the parents that succumb to bribery;)