I would say Christmas this year was a success in my book. Brian had to work Christmas Eve so Emme and I went over to Heidi's parents house and spent Christmas Eve with them which was really nice. We usually spend the holidays with Heidi's family since we have no family here and I always feel welcomed and part of their family. Emme had a ball playing with Levi and the other kids and she even got a present from the Christmas Angel (i.e. Marty and Jim, Heidi's parents).Christmas morning we got up and I made breakfast and then we opened presents. Or I should say, Emme opened all the presents. She had a blast ripping off the paper and opening everything, she had quite a knack for it too. Before I could turn around, she had another one opened right away. She was sure one spoiled little girl I'd say. She probably had 20 presents under the tree from Brian's parents, cousin, and us combined. Her favorite thing she got I would say was her shopping cart complete with 100 fake food items and little boxes. While that might not have been so smart on my part, since I will be the one picking up all the pieces everywhere, she is totally in love with it. She pushes it everywhere and stops and fishes things out all day pretty much. She also loved the vtech toy I got her that you sit on and turn the wheel. That was a steal since I got it on craigslist in pretty much new condition for only $15, go me! Amoung other things, she got a billion books from her Nanny, some clothes, blocks, little pots and pans, a fake dishwasher, a puzzle, tons of various balls to throw around, a trainset/train table that we have yet to put together since she got enough stuff to keep her occupied for the time being.
After gifts, I made gingerbread cookies and then we made our way over to Heidi's sister's house for Christmas Day dinner. It's always nice to see Heidi's family and Emme loves playing with the other kids. Christmas definately seems to be getting more and more fun every year now that we have kids. Emme is in such a fun age where she gets more of what's going on and is more involved compared to last year where she was just a little baby blob. I know next year will be even better since she will be a year older, talking, and super excited to see what Santa brought her. Then of course, we will have number two who will be almost a year old as well, wow! Can't wait!
Needless to say, the candy cane didn't work and she wanted nothing to do with it or Santa. She was totally fine once I took her off his lap but the pictures actually turned out pretty funny. Oh well, I figure all kids have at least one picture of themselves crying on Santa's lap at one time in their life or another. Maybe next year will go over better!
