Christmas Night

It was a very Jersey Christmas...but in the most classiest way possible! We drove up the viaduct to Union City to spend the evening at the Wassner-Smith abode, which was festooned with live swags of garland and packed with piles of new toys including a play kitchen stocked with food. Leave it to Speed to whip up a gourmet Christmas dinner including a goose (yes, he roasted it himself), cauliflour au gratin, roasted veggies, and a pork loin. Might I add that he's been working long hours and enduring a long commute to and from the city every day...but that's just Speed for you.

The boys played their hearts out while we ate, relaxed and exchanged gifts. Though it was an intimate affair and we missed our usual extended family, it really was all about the kids this year. The fact that they were together and able to enjoy their new loot while staying comfortable in their own homes made them so happy...and made the day even more priceless.

Christmas Morning

Santa Claus was very good to us all this year. On Christmas morning, as we sipped from mugs full of eggnog flavored coffee, we watched Eamon spill over with joy at the sight of all of his presents. He leaped with excitement for each and every item--from the mini Matchbox car to the concrete mixer he had been musing about for weeks. Meanwhile, Nora--still decked out in her Christmas Eve finest--snoozed away like a little angel. My parents stayed with us for an hour or so before moving up the hill to Leezie's to watch Sam and Jack tear open their haul.

But the fun was just beginning...after a hearty brunch prepared by Mark and a nice nap for Eamon, we got ready for more merriment at the Wassner-Smith's.

'Twas the Night Before Christmas

Given the recent events, we decided it would be best to stay put for Christmas. This would be my first-ever Christmas away from Maryland--and Mark's away from his family--but we didn't want to risk Nora's health by traveling and being away from her doctor in case something happened (knock on wood, she's doing very well). I was so happy when Leezie & Speed decided to stay in town, too, and then Ula and my parents decided to grace us with their presence as well. We were only missing Bec, who was up in Canada with John's family.

We hosted everyone for Christmas eve, and Mark made a delicious lasagna that I hope he incorporates into his repertoire. We sat around the table under candlelight, drank wine, enjoyed eachother's company, and watched the boys play with their new toys and the train set for hours. The joy they exuded warmed the heart and set the tone for a very Merry Christmas.

The Days of Christmas

In the build-up to Christmas, we got to enjoy a few new holiday traditions. Now that Eamon is aware of the season, it was extra fun getting him excited for the big day--and all that it means (beyond Santa). He participated in decorating the tree, stringing the lights, and even wrapping presents (well, pulling off pieces of tape and sticking them random places). One night, we decorated sugar cookies with buttercream frosting I colored red and green (with DIY colored sugar, too). Eamon had a blast "painting" his cookies--and sampling the goods.

Mark also took E to see Santa Claus at the mall...unlike last year when he was scared to death of the big guy, he walked right up to him, sat on his lap, and announced he wanted a "concrete pouring truck" for Christmas. And, of course, Santa delivered!

 
 

Bubba made Eamon this quilt when he was first born, and we got great use out of it. Now, Nora's loving the bright colors and fun print. I lay her down on it by the Christmas tree and she seems to enjoy just staring at the lights and checking out her world.

Brother & Sister

Eamon really is over the moon with Nora. It's so cute to see. The other day I was taking some pictures of her and he just grabs her hand, quietly and unprompted. Then he offered her his prized Percy the train. You know it must be love!

Happy!

 
 

Sweet smiles! That's what we like to see around here :-)

Getting in the spirit...

 
 
 
 

We decorated for Christmas this weekend. Nothing too major, but it's always nice to have some festive decor!