Christmas, Seattle, New Year...OH MY!

What a week!

The girls hugging after exchanging gifts-their school does a "Santa Shop" and they were able to buy each other presents.


Joshua was most excited about a little clapper he got in his stocking. It was so fun watching him open presents. Last year he was only 2 months old and slept through Christmas morning!

We celebrated Christmas and every year it seems to get better. The joy in the kids' faces, and the excitement. It was a fun day! We are on year 4 of our brunch tradition where both of our families come over to our house for Christmas brunch. I like not having to leave on Christmas and still getting to see everyone. The kids don't want to be pulled away from their new loot, and I enjoy hosting on this special day.

After Christmas Eve Mass

Well, 2 days after Christmas I hopped on a plane to fly out to Washington to celebrate Alison's 30th birthday! Months ago when we talked about being together for our 30ths I got so excited. How wonderful. We have been friends for more than half our lives and I just love these girls. They truly are like family to me. It was so nice to have girl time together this past week. Did I mention that I also got to play in the snow? SO fun!!

Then, New Years Eve came and went. I feel strange about New Years. Excited for a new year, and all that awaits in that new year, but sad about my kids being a year older, and leaving the past year behind. Nelson and I had a quiet New Years Eve, and we really enjoyed it. We rented a movie, and then watched the ball drop with champagne. Then on New Years Day we cleaned up Christmas decorations, and went to the park with our kids on such a beautiful day.

This year I turn 30, my kids turn 6 and 2! My girls will start kindergarten! It's a big year!! We have a trip to North Carolina planned for February, and a trip to Vegas in July!! I'm excited to see what else awaits us in 2011!!