Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to everyone!

We have had quite a busy few weeks here, as I'm sure all of you have also had.

We took baby with us to Mass on Christmas Eve, which was so exciting for everyone since it was her first time at Mass (she's not allowed out in public places). Of course we chose the most packed Mass time of the entire year to be her first experience so there was only standing room available in the coat room - the whole church sanctuary was packed, as were the crying room and the chapel and the chairs and standing room in the foyer and in the hallway. Craziness. Anyways, we just couldn't imagine going separately to Christmas Mass like every other weekend, so we are really happy that it all worked out.

We were, luckily, able to go to my parents' house on Christmas Eve despite the snowstorm. My brother graciously gave up his bedroom for us and LL to sleep in, although she was way too curious about her new surroundings to sleep at night. So, dad and I were up with her most of the night, but she did take naps randomly that evening and on Christmas Day. Santa knew to deliver presents for us at my parents' house somehow because there were stockings with candy and presents outside our door when we awoke. LL had fun "helping" to open her presents, which mainly consisted of batting at them and crumpling the wrapping paper in her hands.

We were sad that we weren't out at dad's parents' place this year for Christmas (first time I haven't been there in 5 years, myself). It is always so warm and cozy there at the house and so much fun spending time with everyone, especially since we don't get to see them in person all that often. It's also beautiful there at this time of year, with the snow on the mountains. We can't wait to take baby for a drive into the foothills on future Christmas trips. We did get to briefly chat with them on Skype, but of course it's not the same. Oh well...there will be many Christmases to come. =)

LL's godparents, Auntie S and Uncle R, came over this morning to exchange gifts and they also brought the gifts from grandparents "out west". So, LL got to open even more presents! The caption for the picture below should read: "I can do it myself Daddy. I'm extremely curious about ripping this wrapping paper".

Wishing all of you a wonderful, healthy, happy 2010 from all three of us!